Chapter 4: Paranoia

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Next day...

6:30 pm...

After school ended and my dad picked me up, I went upstairs to finish up this quick back-to-school survey for AP Bio. Besides that though, I don't think I have any significant homework.

Next week is when all the homework begins though. I just got my first DeltaMath for Calc that's due on the 25th, so I gotta do that over the weekend and part of next week.

But we can talk about homework later.

I'm just gonna wear what I wore to school to Vinnie's house, an oversized ivory hoodie with black leggings. I gave myself a headache from putting my hair in such a tight braid this morning, so I'm probably just gonna leave it open and go. And maybe braid it later on.

After putting all my stuff away and making myself seem a little presentable, I go downstairs to see my mom organizing some paperwork, stressing herself out while she stares at all the papers on her table.

"Do you need help, Ma?" I ask her as I quickly grab some water.

"No, it's ok Kanna. Krish and Tripti are almost home, so I can ask them to help me," she responds as I give her a concerned expression. "Are you sure?"

"Aama (Yes). Don't worry about it, you should start walking to Vinnie's house," she suggests as I go to the closet and quickly put on some two-strap sandals.

"Sari (Ok), Ma. Poituvaren (I'll go and come back)!" I shout as I open the two glass doors and go outside. "Sari, have fun!" she shouts back, giving me a wave and a giant smile as I wave back. After that, I turn towards the stone path and start walking down my driveway.

Vinnie's house is a couple of streets down from mine, but I decide to take a long way there, taking in the sunlight and looking at the glistening green lake in the middle of the neighborhood.

After soaking in the Vitamin D and inhaling the fresh breeze for about 10 minutes, I see her lane name pop up. So I take a turn onto Lantana Circle and walk down till I see Vinnie's giant house.

***

Well, all the houses in this neighborhood are giant though. But Vinnie's house is pretty distinct-looking. It's very modern-looking, with glass panels and wood finishes, but the inside is so cozy and comfortable. Plus, it's so entertaining. There's a volleyball court, a pool, a movie theater, and maybe even more. Who knows?

I walk up the consecutive stone slabs, which seem to be increasing in altitude with each coming step. I keep track of all the stones until I reach the front door, and I ring the Ring.

Get it?

Okay, nevermind.

Vinnie comes to the door immediately, unlocking the door and peeking the head out. "WHAT'S UP," she greets me excitedly as she gives me a hug.

"My siblings are coming home tonight!" I chirp excitedly as Vinnie smiles in delight. "That's good! Are your parents ok with you being here though? Since they're arriving?"

"Oh, yeah, yeah. They said it was ok," I clarify and she nods her head in acknowledgment.

"Do you want to go up to the home theater, or stay down here until everyone arrives?" she questions while I just look around her house.

"We can just stay down here," I say and she responds with an "Ok."

"I made nachos with Vik and Vansh, so help yourself. Knowing Vansh, he probably put 1000 cups of hot sauce, so if it's extra spicy, that is not my fault!" she gestures to the giant nacho platter in the middle of the table. It's coated in cheese, refried beans, and sour cream, with a topping of guacamole, tomato salsa, and sour cream.

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