“I know it won't mean much now, but you're just a kid, Leena. It wasn’t your responsibility to keep her safe.”
“I don't know any other life. I was the one who made meals, took care of the baby, and made sure the twins got to school.”
“Shina will do that from now on, and Alla too. Just enjoy being a kid. It goes fast. Trust me. One blink and you're twenty-four.”
She sighs and faces the window as I continue up the long driveway.
Looks like they have been busy since we left. Lights hang in front of the door, and there is a blow up snowman in the yard now.
Today has been long and rough, but you wouldn't know it when we walked inside. The kids talk a mile a minute in excitement, asking me a million questions.
Shina gives me a big smile and takes the food, bringing it into the den, placing it on a large coffee table.
Alla joins us with a tray of silverware, plates and drinks.
We sit down to eat, and I can't help but to be in awe of Shina. She’s so undeniably strong. It’s like she never went to a morgue to identify her sister this afternoon.
She laughs with the kids and rocks Alec when he gets fussy, all with a smile on her face.
“Can we do the tree now?” Xander asks me, and I look at Shina.
She nods with a smirk and I jump up. “Wanna help me, little man?”
“Yes!” he shouts before rushing to get his coat and shoes on.
Shina grabs a blanket, wrapping it tight around the baby, then follows us outside.
“Wow, that has to be the biggest tree I have ever seen,” Xander mumbles then hops from foot to foot.
“Hopefully it fits,” Shina mutters, worried.
“It will.” I assure her and wink. She rolls her eyes, but laughs.
“Thanks again. For doing all of this. How was she?”
“Fine. A little quiet, but she opened up a bit. It's going to take some time. Does she see or talk to anyone? I know someone if you decide to go down that route. My niece sees someone on Cadbery Lane.”
“Really? Yeah, I mentioned her speaking to someone earlier, and she wasn't against it. So maybe.”
Alec starts to fuss, so Shina brings him inside as Xander and I finish unloading my truck.
I glance around me at the house, kids, Shina. I don't know what's in store for us, but right here and now… Even in the midst of tragedy, I feel like this is where I'm meant to be. That I'm home.
Chapter Six
Shina
Last night spending time with the kids, and making new memories, helped to dim the tragedy of losing Lexi.
I'm still shadowed in guilt for all the things I could have done differently, but Rock was right. Things were out of my control, and when I could assist, I tried. It was just too late.
But now I need to be strong for my family. Leena and I told the twins before bed after Rock had left.
I kinda wished he stayed, but I understand. Honestly, it was probably for the best, as all the kids, including Leena climbed into my bed.
They didn't want to be alone. I grabbed the portable crib and brought Alec into the room too.
I told them all stories about their mom from when we were little, holding them tight as they cried.
