One Thing Right -Sequel to The Best of Our Love(Colby Brock)

Chapter 41

-Brooke-

Sky was looking at the floor as we sat together in the living area of the house we grew up in. She picked at a spot on her jeans as we sat quietly. We needed to talk about this, even if we didn't want to. We need to decide this sooner rather than later.

Sky isn't able to live on her own yet. She may be 18 so legally she can, but she doesn't have a job that pays well enough to cover rent. And this house hasn't been paid off, and she can't afford a mortgage. I heard Colby's footsteps come down the stairs and into the living area. He met my eyes and I smiled at him sadly. He smiled back and looked at Sky who was looking at him. He looked pained. I can't even imagine how much of a mess we look right now.

"I'm gonna go pick up food," He spoke, clearing his throat. "What are you two interested in?"

"McDonalds," I sighed. "I think we need comfort food right now." 

Sky nodded next to me. "Yeah. That sounds good."

"Alright, I'll go pick that up. Brooke, can you text me what you and Sky want?"

I nodded. "Yeah. Thank you baby."

I know he can just do postmates or something, but I think he knows Sky and I need to talk alone. Sister to sister. 

He grabbed his shoes, keys, and wallet, then came over and kissed both of us on the head before leaving. I felt a moment of anxiety when I saw the door close behind him, but reminded myself that he's taking dad's car, so he's safe. 

I took a long, steady, breath. Sky joined me. We giggled a bit when we realized we took a long breath together. 

I finally turned to her, and took her hands in mine. She met my eyes, she was already tearing up. I knew this wasn't a conversation she wanted to have.

I swallowed hard before speaking. "I know this isn't easy, baby sister. But...I know you can't afford to live on your own. And the house...we're better off selling it."

She winced, as a strangled sound escaped her throat. "Brooke-"

"I know," I said quickly, my voice shaking. "I know. I don't wanna talk about this either, but I'd rather do so now."

"I know," Her voice raised a bit. She pulled her hands and pressed her palms to her eyes. "I know we do. I just...I don't think I can do this right now."

"I just wanna know where  you want to live," I urged, putting my hands on her legs. "Sky, we gotta talk about this. You can live with Colby and I in LA for a while if you want, or you can live with Stella and be here in Washington. Neither answer is wrong, I just want to make sure you're safe."

She bit down on her lip and shook her head before standing up. "I can't do this."

"Sky wait-"

She ran off before I could say anything else, and a moment later I heard her door shut. I turned forwards and pressed my palms into my eyes. I feel responsible for Sky, being the only family she has left. We have one aunt that's still alive, and a cousin. But our cousin is in the army, and our aunt is an alcoholic so she wouldn't be safe there. The rest of our family is either dead, in the military, or a substance abuser. I'd be okay with her at Stella's if Stella is willing to care for her. Alex is a bit of a creep but he's never done anything to her, and he get's along better with Sky than the rest of us.

She get's along better with Stella too.

I sighed and lifted my head, realizing something. I haven't been there as much as Stella, dad, and Alex. After I moved...I guess I got distant from her. Not intentionally but...I did so without even realizing.