They had two gorgeous and glamorous children, Brandon, who was twelve-years-old, and Amelia, who was ten. They sat across from us, their blond hair perfectly coiffed, their behavior impeccable, and their senses of humor on overdrive. They were great kids and I adored them.
“Nothing,” I said, quickly. “Just didn’t sleep much last night.”
Because Emily was so incredibly smart, she could see through me... truth be told, she could see through most people... with ease. She was often underestimated because she was so pretty, which she used to her advantage any time she could.
My sister raised an eyebrow. “Liar,” she whispered. “Spill.”
“Em,” I hissed.
She leaned closer. “You’ve met a guy!”
I shook my head.
“What are you two conspiring about,” our mother asked.
“I’m trying to get Dani to go out with a friend of mine,” Emily improvised.
“And it’s not going to happen,” I said.
“Go easy on the baby, Em,” Elliot piped in. “Her date the other night was a total bust.”
“Was it?” my father asked. “That’s a shame.”
I choked on my wine as everyone laughed. “Say that a little more believably, Dad.”
“I’m surprised you haven’t forced her to wear a chastity belt,” Emily said.
“I have always allowed you girls to make your own choices,” he said.
“Ohmigod, Dad,” I droned. “You are such a liar.”
“Is that allowed in law enforcement?” Emily mused. “Lying to your children?”
“I think Ell should arrest him for being really bad at it,” I said.
“Leave your father alone,” my mom said. “He’s very, very pretty... he can’t be good at lying too.”
That sent us all into fits again, including my niece and nephew.
“How about Dani and I do the dishes and get dessert ready?” Emily suggested. “Mom, you go relax for a bit.”
Mom grinned. “I won’t say no to that.”
“Who wants to play pool?” My dad asked.
“Me!” Brandon said. “Can I, Mom?”
“You and your sister clear,” Emily said. “And then you’re free.”
Mitch chuckled. “I’ll help, then I’m gonna beat my kids’ butts at pool.”
“Not even gonna happen, Dad,” Amelia droned.
“We’ll see, honey.”
She chuckled and started to clear the table.
Once Emily and I were blissfully alone in the kitchen, she scraped plates while I rinsed and loaded the dishwasher.
