Tap, tap, tap.
“Come in.”
The door opens and Mom pokes her head inside. “Busy?”
“No.” I place my cell on my lap. “You just getting in?”
“Yes, it’s been a long day.” She sits on my bed. “What did you buy at the mall?”
“A dress and accessories for the homecoming dance.” I point at the stylish garment hanging on the hook attached to the back of my closet door.
“Wow, it’s beautiful.”
“I met a smokin’ hot guy too.”
“Bagged yourself a stud muffin already.”
“He couldn’t resist my beauty.”
She giggles at my obvious sarcasm.
“How’s school?”
“No complaints, everything’s groovy.”
There’s no sense in telling the truth and upsetting her.
“I’m glad to hear that.” She squeezes my knee. “Listen, I’m sorry for neglecting you. It’s been so hectic since the move, but I’m here if you need to talk.”
“I’m a plucky girl, Mom. Don’t worry about me.”
“It’s my job to worry about you.”
“I’m fine… promise.”
“All right. Lunch and a movie on Sunday? Just you and me.”
“It’s a date.”
“Great. How were cheerleader tryouts?”
I duck my head, picking at my comforter. “I decided to forgo cheerleading this year.”
“Why?” Her brows furrow.
“I prefer to focus on school and getting into college. Anyway, I’m super busy with the school newspaper and working.”
“As long as you’re happy, baby. Oh, before I forget, are you interested in volunteering to be a tutor at my job? It’s an hour Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. The experience will add a boost to your college applications.”
“Yeah. I can start next week.”
“Fantastic. I’ll figure out who to pair you with.”
My phone rings and I glance at the screen. “It’s Saint.”
“Go ahead and answer it, baby.” She kisses my cheek. “We’ll talk more tomorrow. Goodnight.”
“Night.” I slide my thumb across the screen. “Hey.”
