The Promise

50) Ali

It's a Monday, but it doesn't matter. Our days has been the same since a lot of years. I don't remember when exactly did we transfer from a raging forest to the calm before the storm.

I wake up at 6 am like every day, head for the kitchen, start the coffee machine and start breakfast as I listen to the sounds of the TV.

I finish the toast, add it to a plate and add some cream to the coffee then I head to where she's sitting.

She's sitting in her usual spot; next to the balcony and in front of the TV, not even glancing its way as she stares outside.

I kiss the top of her head, "Morning, princess." and place the plate and cup in front of her.

She looks up at me and smiles, I smile back and go to the kitchen again to pour myself a cup of coffee.

I look at her as she starts eating like every day. A robot, but eats to stay alive.

Some days she's present and others she's not, but is she the same since that day? Never.

I hear shuffling, "Morning." My brother strolls into the kitchen as he heads straight for the coffee, pours a cup and sets it on the counter as he goes to plant a kiss to her cheek then comes back again.

"Where were you yesterday?" I raise a brow; he looks at me sideways as he stirs his coffee. "With friends." He replies. I nod then grimace, "Joe, can I ask for a favor?"

He nods and I go on, "I really have an important appointment today, I won't be home in the evening." I say glancing at her then back at him. He takes the clue and nods instantly, "I'll be at home. You go." I smile thankfully and he smiles back and heads back to his room.

We're always like that, her in her spot or sleeping, me doing chores or working and Joe out or sleeping or away working.

I was working at an office 4 years ago, but stopped when the doctor said she can't be left alone and the house started to look like a real jungle as no one removed a paper from the floor. Her; asleep from the medications and Joe with his coping skills. So, I stopped and worked from home instead; I only go out for specific reasons and get back.

My phone lights up and I smile as I see the picture. I pick up, "Hello, baby."

"Hi! Are we still meeting today? Did you tell Joey?" she chides. "Yes, we are and yes I told him he's staying home with her tonight."

"Good, I'll see you tonight then." I hear shuffling, "You're going to the school?" I ask.

"Yes! God, I can't believe I overslept. I should do something, but I was out all day yesterday and slept so late because nana needed help with the laundry and dishes."

"Is she still ill? She's not getting better?" I ask, "Nope." She pops out the p as I sigh. Elianna has always been the one in charge since she started college. It's like she's spinning not taking any breaks.

"it's okay, babe. I'm all good." She coos softly, I hate that I can't do anything more. I can't help anyone; my mom, brother, Elianna, even myself.

Sometimes all I need is him. I miss the days I got sick and thought of nothing as he took care of it all. Almost twenty years without your real father can suck so much.

"I'll see you later, angel. We'll figure it out." I drawl. "Fine, see you, cutie." She says closing the line.

I spare another glance at my mother as she sits, didn't move a bit. Now she's looking at the TV, but I'm sure she's not watching.

I head for my room passing by Joe's, faint music comes from the inside. I knock and head inside, he's perched on the couch scrolling through his phone with a cigarette in his mouth.

I sit next to him, "How's Lana?" I ask then frown, my question is followed by silence, he looks up smirking "She's not Lana. Lana was two weeks ago." I snort

"How's what's her name?" it's his turn to snort this time. "I broke up with Talia, days ago." He stressed out her name. I shake my head, "Hey, no hard feelings. It's their choice anyways." He argues, I narrow my eyes at him then we both start laughing.

"Where are you goin' tonight?" he asks wiggling his brows, "With Elianna, she has an issue with the insurance thing; we'll go fix it up then maybe come back together. She wants to see mom."

"She doesn't want to see me, I'm wounded." He places his hand on his chest feigning hurt. "We don't even see you, Joe. Fuck off." I say as he rolls his eyes "You ruined my mood." I scoff as I exit the room heading for mine.