Trust Me [Book 2]

Chapter 13 Part 2: Almost Nasty

        

Chapter 13 Part 2 - [October 8th]

A big smile broke out when I saw my baby sister Trichelle. We attacked each other with hugs and kisses. I easily pushed the conversation with my mom to the back of my mind. I didn't see the purpose in dwelling on silly emotions.

"Hey boo," she greeted, squeezing me again.

"I missed you. You have to start answering texts."

"You're one to talk. I texted you this morning."

"My phone is in-"

"Well dang," Michelle interrupted. "Act like I didn't walk in right after her."

            It was work to keep my face neutral. Trichy and Michy both arrived before I did so Mama sent them to the grocery store for more ingredients.

"Hello Michelle. How are you?" I asked dryly.

"Whatever Elle, I'm too blessed to deal with your attitude. Come on, Elle Jr. help me put away these groceries."

            That stupid nickname irked my nerves and I knew Trichelle didn't appreciate it either. Michelle had taken to calling Trichelle Elle Jr or Elle Squared because one dinner she 'pulled an Elle' as the family liked to say. She announced that she was married and pregnant.

            After her announcement, there was a solid ten seconds of silence then the house erupted. Daddy nearly flipped the table and he punched Dr. Brooks. She received the same warning I did, 'I'm giving you a week. Fix this or don't think about coming home' except Daddy was shouting this as Ma and Ty struggled to restrain him.

            Nowadays, Trich stayed away about as much as I did. At least I dropped Rocky off to spend time with her grandmother. Trich usually didn't let Halima stay anywhere without her.

"Juice juice," Hali requested, reaching for her cup. I slid it closer to her. "Tank to."

            Her adorable voice tugged my heartstrings. I picked her up from her seat to snuggle and kiss her more. "Ahh T." She giggled louder when I began to blow raspberries on her cheeks.

"Did you say please?" Trich asked, poking her belly.

"Peas," Hali squealed.

"Wow I haven't seen Halima since she was five months old," Michelle said. "She's grown so much. Talking and everything. She speaks better than Rocky." Michy cackled evilly as she stocked the fridge with fresh fruits and vegetables.

            She sucked all the happiness out of the room with one rude comment. Fire bloomed in my chest. I was ready to fight my big sister and if I didn't have Hali in my arms I would have in a second.

"Ma get your child," I warned.

"I lied?" Michelle did not know when to shut up. "Can she speak in full sentences?"

"Don't talk about my child. I don't talk about yours."

"What could you say? My kids aren't slow."

"Michelle Akila!" Ma scolded, popping her on the arm. "Apologize to Brielle. That isn't the way family talks about each other."

"So we're really pretending Rocky's not special? Really? ...Can she count?"

            I squeezed my fist together tightly, trying not to blow up. This bitch made sure to push the button guaranteed to piss me off.

            Turning around, I left the kitchen and walked through the living room, down stairs to the finished basement. Halima was still with me, carefully observing the room.