THE TOXIC DEAL

6. ALERT MODE ON

BRIA

After getting chided by Benji for calling him old man and doubting his strength I head to my bedroom not before bidding him goodnight. I took a warm shower to relax my tensed body and a foggy mind. After getting ready for bed I slipped under the covers and sat resting my back on the headboard. My mind replaying the events of the night. I was thinking about my talk with Benji a while ago where he mentioned the boss. I asked him how did he conclude that this boss person was after us but he switched the topic immediately.

When I saw that box and heard that ticking sound, I assumed it was indeed a bomb. Fear stricken faces of all kids flashed in front of my eyes and my heart twisted at the thought of anyone of them getting hurt. I didn't know who this boss person was and what exactly he wanted but I promised myself that I will not let him win. I will not let them hurt my kids or take our home away from us. This house was our place which we turned into a home with love and our uncountable bittersweet memories. With that thought, I drifted to sleep.

Next-Day......

I watched as everyone get settled on the dining table for breakfast. But there was no bickering, fights and noise like every day. They all were very quiet, their faces were holding the look like someone would jump out of nowhere to hurt them. I hated it. I didn't like my kids feeling this scared. Benji came into the room with the last plates of breakfast and put them on the table. We exchanged the looks.

I cleared my throat and switch to my best strongest voice " kids."

All six heads turned to look at me at the same time.

"I know you guys are disturbed because of yesterday's event. But I promise you that there is no need to worry you guys about it. I and Benji will handle the situation. You all just focus on your studies as your exams are coming in a few weeks. But you guys have to keep your guards up all the time." I paused to scan their faces for any reactions. They remained unchanged. I met Benji's eyes as he signalled me to continue.

"don't talk to any stranger. Don't touch anything which is not yours... in school and in home. Inform me or Benji immediately if you notice anything or anyone suspicious. Always stay in a group. It is the older kids' responsibility to look after the younger ones. And finally... Do not pull any stunt to show your bravery or how much you care about the family. Understood?"

They blinked then slowly nodded their heads at me in understanding.

"I want a verbal promise"

"promise," they all said in unison.

"good. Now hurry up. You guys have to get to school." I smiled at them. They dig in their breakfast finishing it soon. All the kids scurried out of the dining room but Juan lingered behind.

"Hey," I said softly as I neared him.

He lifted his head meeting my eyes. Before I could say anything, he hugged me tightly. I felt his heavy breathing and slightly tensed body. I wrapped my hands around his taller frame and started rubbing his back up and down in soothing motion. I pulled away to look at him to see his teary eyes. I pulled him further in the room and made him sit on the sofa before sitting beside him.

"hey! What's wrong buddy?" I asked while stroking his knuckles slowly with my hands.

"I – I am scared Bria."

"there's no need to be scared Juan. I will take care-"

"I read that second note Bria. I know they want something from you. They are not after us but they are after you. They are using us to just get to you." He clenched my hands.