A: Short Story Collection

Chapter 24

"Stick Together"

I sit in the backseat of the car as Gloria drives and unexpectedly Ime's mom sits in the passenger seat.

The city is crowded and full of people walking the sidewalk and crossing the street. Traffic is heavy right now.

"So, what brings you along with us, Miss Caroline," Gloria said.

Miss Caroline smiles. "You know, us girls got to stick together."

I raise my hand. "I'm not a girl."

Gloria looks at me through the rear mirror. "Then why are you dressed like one."

I groan. "Ime likes it when I dress like this."

Miss Caroline looks at me. "So, you dress like that for Ime?"

"Money and rewards."

"That's pathetic," Gloria said. "I don't see what Ime sees in you."

"His coc-."

Miss Caroline stares at me.

Dammit, I forgot she's here.

Gloria laughs. "You're having sex with the boss's son. That's hilarious."

Gloria looks at me. "You're not joking?"

"I'm serious."

Gloria looks at Miss Caroline.

"Eyes on the road," Miss Caroline said.

Gloria does as she says.

The car goes quiet and everyone just looks out the window.

Such a big city. I wonder what it's like growing up here.

We arrive at what looks to be a mall.

"Here we are," Gloria said.

Yes! Finally what I wanted.

This is going to be a great shopping spree.