“Me, too. I still haven’t had one-on-one time with them, but at least I know they’re open to rebuilding our relationship. I know it won’t be easy for obvious reasons, but whatever strife comes behind it is worth it. I miss them so much.”
I reached out and grabbed her hand. “I know, love. I have faith it will all work out.”
Ellie looked between us curiously. “Uncle Killian, I thought you said she wasn’t your girlfriend.”
“She’s not.”
“So why are you holding her hand?” She gasped. “Do you like her?” she whispered loudly.
“You know, Ellie, you are just as nosy as your mama.”
“My mommy is not nosy…What’snosymean?”
“You ask a lot of questions.”
“Well, how am I supposed to know stuff I don’t know if I don’t ask?”
Alayah laughed. “She has a point, Killian.”
I shook my head as Adrienne approached the table with our tray of food. She placed it in the middle of the table and took a seat.
“Let me see your phone,” she said, holding out her hand.
Alayah dug into her purse and produced the phone, handing it to her. Her sister typed on it for minute before handing it back.
“I put my number in there and sent Miyah yours. I’m gonna create a group chat.”
“Kennedy doesn’t check your phone?”
“Of course she does. That’s why we have two phones. Miyah gave you her second line, just like I did.”
I chuckled and shook my head. “You’re a sneaky one, huh?”
“If you had to live with that woman, you’d be sneaky, too. She’s not gonna keep me away from my sister.”
Alayah had a worried look on her face. When Adrienne noticed it, she wrapped her arms around her and kissed her cheek. That made her smile a little. I couldn’t imagine not being able to see Bridget. Sure, she worked my nerves growing up, but we had always been pretty close. If I couldn’t have that, it would break my heart.
After distributing the food, we dug in, making small talk. Ellie was busy enjoying her burger and coloring in the little activity book that came with her kid’s meal.
“Where is Miyah?” Alayah asked.
“We had a teacher workday today, so she’s with her little friends. I can call her right quick.”
She picked up her phone and tapped the screen. A few seconds later, the sound of playful laughter could be heard as Amiyah answered the video call.
“Hey, sissy. What’s up?”
“Look who’s here.”
She turned the camera so Amiyah could see Alayah. The happiest squeal came from her.
“Layah! I miss you!”
Alayah swiped a tear from her eye. “I miss you, too, baby.”
“Why haven’t you texted me?”
“I’m sorry. I just didn’t want to get you in trouble. Your sneaky sister here informed me that y’all have two phones.”
