CHAPTER 21
Andreas
Kyle:
You’re coming to Mom’s birthday, right.
I chuckle as I peer down at Kyle, my oldest brother’s, message to me in our ‘siblings’ group chat. He phrased it as a question but intentionally left off the question mark, because it’s not a request.
It’s not even a question of whether I’m returning to Williamsport to celebrate our mother’s birthday. It’s a given. But because I refuse to allow my brother to think he has any damn control of me, I have to respond in kind.
Andreas:
I’ll think about it. What time did you say it was?
While I sit behind the wheel of my car, I notice the bubble to indicate typing pop up a couple of times. A grin I can’t wipe away passes over my lips.
Kyle:
Have your ass back home or I swear I’ll be on the next flight to L.A. And you know I fucking hate that damn city.
Andreas:
You really should learn how to speak more kindly to your younger brother. Where’s the ‘please’ and ‘thank you’? Mom would have a fit if she saw these messages.
Kyle:
I crack up imagining the anger on my brother’s face.
Kennedy:
Kyle, you know Andreas is just pulling your chain since you’re so damn easy to piss off. See you soon, little brother. Can’t wait!
Andreas:
See, big sis, this is why you’re my favorite out of you two. Love you.
Stasi:
What about me?
Stasi is the youngest out of the five of us and she’s definitely the most spoiled.
Andreas:
You’re decent, little sis.
Stasi:
That’s why Kennedy’s my favorite, too. Oh, and Thiers. And he’s more handsome than you.
Andreas:
Ouch! That stung. But I know it’s a lie since I’m the best looking out of the entire Townsend clan.
Stasi:
Kennedy sends a crying laughing emoji while Kyle sends one indicating his anger. Through my laughter, I assure him that I will definitely be in attendance for our mom’s birthday celebration, just like I am every year.
