Trust Me [Book 2]

Chapter 14: Fuzzies & Flashbacks

Chapter 14 - [October 17th]

           
It started with a late night phone call,

            A guilt trip,

            And one pesky reminder that I made an agreement.

            All of which, led to sitting in Elaine's make-up chair with Rocky on my lap. I had a date. Something set up under the pretenses of being real and romantic. I had my own agenda. Rick and I needed to talk.

            I took the small amount of free time, gained when Rocky started school, to strategize. Although Trich hadn't told me what to do, her advice helped me come to a decision.

"Sissy please be open minded tonight," Elaine pleaded as she applied a dark plum tint to my lips. "I know my brother is an a-hole but ignore that side of him."

            No doubt, Rocky was listening. She didn't budge or comment. Her little fingers played with the snug fabric of my wrap dress. I spent all day with my baby girl and now I could tell she was ready for bed.

"He's been blowing my phone up ever since you said yes. He wants tonight to be perfect."

            Elaine sprayed MAC studio finishing spray before taking a step back. I stared in the vanity mirror loving the new mask she painted on. Bold lip and winged eyeliner Elle was ready for the night.

            The doorbell rang impatiently the next second as my heart pounded. Elaine ran off to answer it. "Be good for your aunt," I whispered to Rocky. She nodded her sleepy head and I kissed her cheek.

"Sissy, your date is here," Elaine announced. The excitement in her voice produced a faint smile on my face.

            I dreaded this night.

            I walked to the front door with Rocky clinging to my side. Rick stood at the entrance with a bundle of flowers in his hands. He extended the roses to me, as I got closer.

            I looked down at the bouquet with disinterest before studying his expression. Rick had never bought me roses. Not for anniversaries, birthdays or just because. Why now?

"How about I put them in a vase?" Elaine volunteered, taking the roses from her brother. She skipped off into the kitchen.

"Hey princess." Rocky turned her head, facing away from him. I didn't know why she responded that way. She'd always been happy to see her father. I heard Rick sigh as I rubbed her hair that I'd recently braided up. "Ready?"

"We can leave after I put Rocky to bed."

"Princess can I have a hug before you go."

            Her "no" was fast and firm. Shrugging, I went up the first step and down the hall towards the bedrooms. Rocky slept in the smallest spare room. The soft pink walls, lamp, and dresser matched the rest of the house.

"Be. Good." I laid her on the hot pink bedspread and kissed her forehead. "Behave yourself." Even though she was going to bed I had to give her a warning. She'd been pretty well behaved during the morning and I didn't want anything to change.

"I know I know."

"Okay so I hope I'll only hear good things when I come back." I kissed her forehead and cheeks twice more before leaving her alone.

            After shutting the door, I hurried back to the front of the house. I picked up my handbag on the way there, securing it on my shoulder. The sooner this night was over the better. I paused right before I hit the stairs when I heard harsh whispering.