Confident

Rice

Today was the day I get Rice out and back into the open. I knew he couldn't stay with James and I because he wouldn't be as safe. So, I decided to let him choose if he wanted to live with his girlfriend, or in one of my houses I have in Milawakee. I already got permission from the girl's family, who completely understood why I couldn't have him in my house.

I stood in front of Sam's house with James for what felt like hours. I couldn't do it. "What happens if this is the wrong choice?" I asked, and James gave my hand a light squeeze.

"We'll figure it out if that happens," he said softly, "but go see your brother. He'll be happy to see you I promise."

"Okay," I sighed, taking a few steps up Sam's porch and knocking on the door. I kept thinking to myself, 'everything's going to be okay. He's going to give you a big hug.'

And I saw Rice's smiling face as he opened up the door. "Jessica!" He exclaimed, throwing his arms over me and pulling me into a big bear hug.

"Sup dude," I whispered, "Sam didn't change my baby brother did he?"

"I hope not," Rice whispered back, "Sam's weird."

I laughed as I squeezed him tighter, "we have to talk."

"Uh oh. That's not good," he said quietly as he pulled away, "I can't come home with you can I?"

I shook my head with a frown, "no. Mom's back."

"I thought she died?" Rice asked, and I shook my head, "it's mom what's so bad about that?"

"She wants to take over the business," I replied, "and she's not going easily. She's a danger to us, especially if she can get her hands on you. I don't know who she's working with, but Natasha was a spy. I want you to not trust anyone. You hear me?"

He was in shock.

"Natasha was a rat?" He asked, "b-but she made cookies with me."

"I know bud," I sighed, "you can't trust anyone. I did do a background check on your girlfriend and her parents, and they said if you wanted, you could stay with them. But if not, I have a safe house in Milawakee where you will go to a different school. I personally feel the safe house is your best option. Okay? But it's your choice."

"I'll go to your safe house. But I'll get to call you everyday right? Not this monthly thing?" He asked, and I gave him a nod with a small smile.

"Yeah. Every day," I whispered, pulling him back in for a big hug, "I love you so much. I just want you to be safe."

"I know. You don't need to explain," he whispered back, and I nodded into his shoulder, "when do I leave?"

"Your ticket is for two hours from now," I whispered, "I'm sorry."

"I understand Jessie," he smiled, "you're the best sister I could ever ask for."

"Don't start that. I don't want to cry," I said quietly, "I already feel horrible for doing this to you."

"Don't be. I'll be able to come for Christmas and Thanksgiving right?"

"Im planning on it," I laughed, "I promise to keep you safe."

"And I promise to let you keep me safe," he muffled into my shoulder, "I won't do anything stupid."

"You better not, or I'll kill you myself," I whispered, leading us both to laugh as we pulled apart, "I'm driving you to the airport. So go get your fucking shit."

"Oh fuck off," he said as he rolled his eyes, running back off into the house. Sam came out to say hi, giving me a big hug.

"He's a good kid," Sam said as he pulled away.