The Harper Brothers (Wattpad Version)

Choices

Leokadia

After Tori told me that she found my mom, I had mixed feelings. I sat on the tree swing in the backyard with the piece of paper clutched in my hand. What do you say to a woman that walked out of your life at six?

I held onto the ropes and moved my converse back and forth. I looked up at the stars twinkling in the darkened sky.

Val carried a lawn chair over to me and sat down. "Are you okay?"

I shrugged.

"Isn't this what you wanted?"

I shrugged again, then averted my eyes.

"Leokadia."

I faced Val as our blue eyes met.

"You have the opportunity to have your questions answered. What about your speech?"

"A speech seems insignificant now."

"But not to you."

"What do I say to her?"

"Whatever you want. It's your decision."

I sighed.

"If you want me to go with you, I will."

"Why?"

"Why what?"

"Why are you willing to help me?"

Val leaned into me. "Because kindness goes a long way."

I gazed into Val's eyes. His eyes held a twinkle in them. "Okay, but I need time."

"Take all the time you need."

I nodded. Val pulled me to him and hugged me. His embrace made me feel safe and secure. It was like no matter what, everything would be okay. I hope it would be.

*******
Valentine

I stayed outside with Leokadia. We talked. She relaxed after a while. I rose from my seat and pushed her on the swing. She held onto the ropes as I gave her a gentle shove.

I've dated several girls, but none affected me as Leokadia did. When I was at work, she engulfed my thoughts. She preferred converse over heels. Her laugh was infectious. She didn't bow down to my brothers but held her own.

What's there not to love about her?

I stopped the swing so she could get off. We walked into the house as my parents sat on the island.

"Is everything okay?" Dad asked.

"Yeah, it was a lot to take in," Leokadia said.

"It's okay to have mixed reactions," Ma said.

"I'll take my time and decide if and when to see her. Val said he would go with me."

"Oh, he did, did he?" Dad shot me a look.

I rolled my eyes.

"Yeah, but I'm not ready yet. Good night." Leokadia went upstairs.

My parents gave me a knowing look.

"What?"

"Valentine," Dad said.

"It's not like that. I'll go for moral support."

"Uh-huh."

I shook my head and headed upstairs.

******
Elias

Tori put her mug to her lips. "How much do you want to bet that Val likes her?"

I lifted my mug. "I'm not betting with you."