Eileen Slovak

Chapter Fifty: Stressed Out Sisters

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, and locales are products of the author’s imagination. They are used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is coincidental. Copyright © 2024 by Eileen Slovak.

Catherine

By the time Scarlet arrives, I’m already putting the kids to bed.

      “I’m so sorry!” She says rushing in, bags in hand.

      “It’s fine. I know you have a life.”

      I can’t hide my irritation.

      “No, I have a job that it’s destroying the possibility that I’ll ever have a life. I got these for the kids,” I say producing teddy bears and candy.

      A chorus of small voices cheer in unison from the bedrooms.

      “Yayyyy!”

      “You can have the animals, but no candy until tomorrow after dinner!” Catherine shouts.

      “Awww!” Is the unified response.

      “I’ll let you tuck them in, but please don’t get them riled up again. I just got them settled.”

      I quickly dole out animals with goodnight kisses, then go back downstairs. I hand Catherine the candy which she puts up on top of the refrigerator.

      “It’s the only place they can’t manage to reach. You look really tired. Rough day?” Catherine asks.

      “You have no idea. I really need my bed. It’s been the worst day imaginable. I’m too worn-out to even discuss it.”

      “I know the feeling.”

      “Christopher looks good. His bruises are already healing.”

      “The healing powers of youth. He’s doing so well. It’s like nothing ever happened,” Catherine yawns. She’s paler than usual with dark circles under her eyes.

      “Where’s Gary?”

      “Work.”

      “Listen, you’re beat, I’ve had a crappy day. Why don’t you get some sleep. I’ll call you tomorrow.”

      “Thanks, I need to. Sorry I’m so crabby. Thank you for the gifts.”

      “Don’t worry about it.”