Red Revenge

14. Sweetie, the top of your head barely reaches the top of my boob.

"Hope? Hope," Allison called out softly, her voice echoing through the silent room. When no response came, she moved with swift concern, gently extracting Hope from Amber's arms and pulling her into a comforting embrace.

In response, Hope turned around and clung fiercely to Allison, burying her face in her sister's shoulder. A wave of silent tears rolled down her cheeks, soaking the fabric of Allison's shirt with her tears.

"Why?! Why did they have to die?!" Hope's voice was muffled as she cried into Allison's shoulder, her words heavy with confusion and pain.

Earlier, Nia and Amber had explained the grim situation to Allison right before Hope had arrived home. Allison had immediately understood the gravity of the situation, her protective instincts kicking in. She wasn't concerned about Klaus or the rest of the family; they could die for all she cared, which they did. However, she was very serious about protecting her younger sister at all costs. It was a vow she had made long ago when she had taken Hope away from their toxic family environment. Ever since then, Hope continually questioned her worthiness, always asking why she wasn't good enough for their parents. It was a question that shattered Allison's heart every time she heard it, a painful reminder of the struggles her younger sister was grappling with.

Seeing Hope's distress now, Allison made a sudden decision. "Why don't you take a break from school tomorrow and spend the day with me instead?" She suggested softly, her words meant to be a soothing balm to Hope's turbulent emotions.

Allison realized that Hope needed a respite, a brief moment of calm in the storm that was their life. As she looked over at Nia and Amber who were sitting on the couch, she understood Hope's unspoken question. "They'll be staying at a hotel until we can get this figured out... We've been friends since elementary school. They're acquainted with my circle of friends and now we're all good buddies."

"Oh," was Hope's subdued response, a single syllable that carried a world of emotions.

"I'm going to bed, goodnight," Hope murmured to her sister, her voice barely above a whisper. Her words hung in the air, a tangible testament to the heavy weight of their situation as she walked upstairs.

...

The following morning dawned with a renewed sense of adventure. I found myself in the kitchen, ready to whip up a delicious breakfast for my sister, Nia, and Amber. With a sizzle in the pan, I prepared a delectable combination of eggs and bacon, filling the room with an enticing aroma. It wasn't long before I spotted Hope descending the stairs, clad in sweats and a cozy brown hoodie. Her hair was effortlessly tied up in a messy bun, giving her a playful and carefree look, along with her glasses.

"Good morning," she greeted me with a warm smile.

Returning the gesture, I asked, "Good morning, are you hungry?"

Her eyes sparkled with hunger as she nodded in response. She settled herself at the counter, eagerly awaiting the breakfast I was about to serve. With a touch of culinary finesse, I presented her plate, brimming with the delicious eggs and bacon I had prepared.

Grinning mischievously, I shared my plan for the day. "You and I are going on a thrilling car ride with music blasting. I know how much you enjoy that. And after, we'll visit my friends who want to see you."

Hope's face lit up with excitement, her smile growing even brighter. "Will Hazel be there?" she asked, unable to contain her anticipation.

I couldn't help but playfully roll my eyes. "Yes, Hazel will be there. I'm starting to think you love Hazel more than me," I teased.

A mischievous smirk danced across her lips. "Maybe I do," she responded playfully.

With a chuckle, I retorted, "Haha, you're such an asshole."

Finishing her meal, Hope gracefully carried her plate to the sink. As she turned back to face me, she asked, "So, when are we leaving?"

Without hesitation, I held up the car keys, a signal that our adventure was about to commence. A wide grin spread across her face, and she darted off to grab her shoes before sprinting towards my car. I couldn't help but chuckle at her enthusiasm. Joining her, I made my way to the driver's seat and started the engine as Nia and Amber hopped in the backseat. Handing Hope my phone, I entrusted her with the task of selecting the perfect music to accompany our journey. True to her musical taste, she chose Chase Atlantic, a band she adored. As the first notes filled the car, Hope couldn't resist belting out the lyrics with unbridled enthusiasm.

"I'm burning up, yeah, all I see is red. She said 'fuck me like I'm famous,' I said 'Okay'," she sang, her voice filled with passion.

Laughter bubbled out of me as I joined in on the fun, allowing the music and her infectious energy to wash over us. Together, we sang along to the rest of the song, relishing the exhilaration of the moment. Our journey continued, with each song bringing us closer to our destination – the shared house of my dear friends.

As we approached our friend's residence, Hope's excitement reached a fever pitch. The car had barely come to a stop when she leaped out and dashed towards the front door, knocking with an urgent fervor. The door swung open, revealing Hazel, who was just as thrilled to see Hope.

"Hazel!!" Hope's joyful scream filled the air.

"Hope!!" Alex's voice echoed back in delight.

I watched with amusement as Hazel extended her arms, welcoming Hope into a tight embrace. Walking over to join them, I couldn't help but playfully glare at Hazel, feigning jealousy.

"Ah, I see how it is," I teased, enjoying the playful banter.

Hazel responded with a hearty laugh. "Hi, Allison. You know I just can't resist little Hopey here. She's like the size of a teddy bear," she remarked, her eyes twinkling with affection.

Chuckling, I tousled Hope's hair affectionately. "She is, huh?"

Hope, not one to back down, defended herself, albeit with a pout. "Hey! No, I'm not. I'm not that small."

Grinning mischievously, Hazel couldn't resist teasing further. "Sweetie, the top of your head barely reaches the top of my boob."

Hope playfully pouted, then swiftly moved to stand by my side. I draped my arm around her shoulder, pulling her closer as we walked together into the house. Greeting our friends, we exchanged warm hellos before settling in the living room.