Here we go again. Emotional manipulation at its finest.
I've brushed off her invitations for weeks, but if I keep dodging, she might eventually show up here. Not that she knows my address, but with her police connections, she could find out.
"Okay, yeah. I can drop by."
"Perfect! Your brother can't wait to see you."
"Aziel will be there?"
"Of course."
I close my eyes and inhale deeply. Mom is one thing. Mom and Aziel together? That's another.
I haven't spoken to him since that night, two years ago.
"You'll seriously take his side?" Aziel screams in my face.
"Yes."
"Yes!? Yes!? Are you fucking kidding me? My own brother!"
"You cheated on him. You shouldn't have done that," I reply calmly.
"I didn't cheat!" he roars. "I didn't fucking cheat, but no one believes me. You're my brother, and you seriously choose the man who chose to believe a stranger over his husband?"
"There was evidence," I say, unflinching.
"It must be fabricated! Please, Sebastian. I need you to believe me." His voice cracks with desperation.
I shake my head and watch as my brother's eyes harden, as he puts his walls up.
"Get out. I don't want to see you ever again. You're no longer my brother. Go to my ex and play brother with him."
It's not brother I'll be playing, but I don't say it out loud.
I just turn and leave.
I wonder how today's encounter will go. He'll probably act properly in front of Mom. But I know better.
For the past two years, he's thrown himself into work and into anyone willing to open their legs at the club. From the outside, it looks like he's living the life. The reality? Honestly, I don't give two fucks.
I'm annoyed my plans are being interrupted. I'm sure my Daddy will miss me. Even if he doesn't know that I'm always there.
I shower and dress in dark clothes, a plain shirt, and trousers. Nothing flashy. nothing revealing.
I wish I could bring Mr. BoBunny, but I'd rather slice my own hands than subject him to my childhood house. He'll protect me from afar.
I kiss his nose, hug him tight, position him on my bed, straighten my shoulders, and leave.
The familiar streets of my childhood neighborhood make bile rise in my throat. I hate this place. I hate it.
Why am I doing this again?
Oh, right. To play pretend. To be the good, awkward boy they still think I am.
I park in the driveway and spot Aziel's car. Of course, he's here already. The two-story house looks frozen in time. Nothing has changed.
The front door swings open. Mom steps out, smiling brightly.
