I make a list. At the very top is applying for a credit card and figuring out how to get groceries on the bus. Then, I’ll look into speech therapy programs and somehow pass my classes. At the very bottom, I note: Regain the stability and independence I’d earned.
I picture the satin strips hanging in my room. The ones I really need to remind me that I did that once, and I can do it again. Only this time, I’ll make it with two kids, and I’ll never put myself in a situation where I lose it again.
Chapter 6
SLADE
“Owww.” Krissy stumbles down the last step but catches herself on the railing.
“Morning, sunshine.”
She grumbles, dragging into the kitchen. She bumps me to the side, trying to get to the coffee pot.
“If you have time this morning, I’ve got a full lineup at the shop. We could use some help with oil changes and rotations.”
She runs the sleeve of her sweatshirt over her face. “I just got my nails done.”
I hand her a clean mug from the dishwasher. “So.”
She pours the steaming black liquid and returns the pot to the warmer. “I have a staff meeting and hope to talk to the manager of the labor department. They want to set up an interview.”
I pick up the small box on top of an open bubble mailer lying on the counter. “What’s this?”
Krissy turns, resting against the counter and bringing her mug to her lips. “It’s a genetic testing kit. The girls at work were talking about them.” She takes a careful sip.
“A testing kit?” I frown, setting it down.
“Yeah. They said it might show if I have any of the markers Mom had.”
My eyes drift back to the small cardboard box. “You want to know that?”
We don’t talk about our mom often. It brings back a tidal wave of emotions neither of us is comfortable getting close to.
She shrugs. “I feel like I should know.” Her voice drops a level. “I mean, it’d be good for possible preventative care.”
A tightness creeps over my chest with those words. “You sure? Would it change anything?”
She weighs her head from side to side. “Maybe. I’m still thinking about it.”
I watch her, knowing she’s already decided, or the box wouldn’t be sitting on the table. She’s trying to protect me, but she wouldn’t do this behind my back. We don’t hide things from each other. It’s a rule.
I’ve been Krissy’s guardian since she was thirteen, when our mom died. It was vital we didn’t keep secrets if we were going to survive the teen years.
“Will you let me know?”
“Sure.” One side of her mouth curls up. “I heard you met the new neighbor.” She changes the subject, hiding her smile behind her mug.
Of course, those jackasses are yapping about it like it’s breaking news. They seriously need more shit to do. I fill my travel mug with coffee.
“Cute single mom, huh?” she asks nonchalantly, like there wasn’t a group message with every inconsequential detail they could conjure to create as much drama as possible.
When I don’t take the bait, she tries again.
“It’s nice of you to help her.”
I screw the lid on my cup. “Her car needs repairing. It’s business.”
“You sound a little defensive, Stone Cold.” She skews her tone, attempting to push my buttons.
