“Yeah.” She nods, grabbing a glass and filling it with water.
Putting the stuff I bought away in the fridge, I turn to her and cross my arms. She seems happy, and I hope it’s permanent. My sister deserves all the happiness in the world.
“We’ve been cooped up in here all day doing chores, so I thought we could reward ourselves with not cooking. Besides, I spent two hours cleaning the kitchen, and I refuse to dirty it.” She shrugs, drinking her water.
“Sounds good.” I slide my hands into my pockets and smile. “By the way, I got transferred to a different department at work, so I’ll be working at the school,” I tell Brooke.
“Like the security guard?” Her brows pull together.
I chuckle and shake my head. “I will be doing security, but I’ll also be leading a ten-week program for some grade levels to train them in safety, anti-bullying, and drug education.”
That’s cool.“ Brooke nods. “Will it be in the high school?”
“I’ll be in both schools.”
“Right up your alley.” She pats my shoulder.
“We’ll see. It’s not quite what I did in Dallas, but it’ll be okay. I’m not sure how this small beach town could have kids that need help like the ones in the city did.” I sigh, rubbing my stubbled cheek.
“I know the job here is different than back home, but this gives you a chance to make a big difference like Mr. Braden did for you.” She gives me a pointed look that speaks volumes.
If it weren’t for Mr. Braden, I wouldn’t be wearing this uniform. I’d be staring at someone else with it on while in prison somewhere.
Maybe.
Who knows?
Thankfully the future panned out differently, and I didn’t have to find out.
“Yeah, yeah.” I shake my head. “I’m gonna shower.”
I head to my bathroom, starting to unbutton my uniform shirt as I go. Once in the bathroom, I take a quick shower. It’s not like I built up a sweat studying state statutes. Before I know it, I’m back in the kitchen with Brooke.
“Tell me what’s really going on? You seem…different.” I tilt my head and stare at her.
“I’m in a good mood. I’m allowed to have those, right?” she snaps.
“Of course you are.” I hug her. “I’m so happy to see you happy.”
“Redundant much?” She snorts.
“Let me have this one,” I joke. “I’m not one to get wordy.”
“Except when you’re drunk and want to spend all night talking.” She snorts in a failed attempt to hold back her laughter.
“I get needy one time and it stalks me for life.” I playfully shove her away.
“More than once, but I love it so you’re forgiven. It makes me feel like I get a real glimpse inside your brain.” She taps my forehead.
“You always know what’s going on in my head,” I argue.
If anyone knows me, it’s my sister. I may not let many people get close, but she’s my best friend. We’ve been through so much together, our lives not exactly being easy, but we’ve had each other’s support.
“Sometimes I wonder,” she mumbles and gives me the fakest smile.
“I can taste the saccharine from that smile.”
“It’s my special,” she jokes.