Page 69 of Forever Cursed

Chrissy turns the TV on while I set our plates up, being super careful not to hit the plates together. When she puts on a true crime doc, I laugh to myself. Now I understand what Ash means when he talks about Gwen putting these shows on when they’re eating or unwinding from a long day.

Her eyes are glued to the screen while we eat. She’s holding her cheesesteak in both hands, blindly taking bites as she watches the TV.

I smile to myself while eating my own food. This is new, but it feels familiar. I’m not uncomfortable or itching to get out. My heart feels at peace, and the dream from earlier isn’t at the forefront of my mind.

“Can I ask you something?”

“Sure,” she answers without looking at me.

“Eyes on me, baby girl,” I chuckle.

“Oh, sorry.” She pauses the show and fixes her gaze on me.

“Do you have plans for the Fourth of July?”

“Hmm, I don’t think so,” she responds while tilting her head back and forth.

“Could I offer an idea?”

“Absolutely! What did you have in mind?” Her excitement spurs on my own.

“Well, I saw a poster for a carnival. It’s a few minutes away from Ash’s. There will be rides, fireworks?—”

“I’m in,” she bursts in with a wide smile.

“Want to invite the rest of the family? Gwen, Ash, Zack, maybe Max?”

“Yes! Oh my gosh, we haven’t done something like this in years! Let alone with all of us! Can I text them now?” she asks while reaching for her phone.

“Yes, go ahead,” I respond, feeling like I’ve done something worthwhile.

Not a minute later, I get a notification. The chat’s title,My Crazy Family,makes me beyond happy.

Chrissy: We’re all going to the carnival by the Waylens’ for the Fourth of July! No ifs, ands, or buts!

Max: I have to work!

Chrissy: On a federal holiday?!

Max: Crime never sleeps!

Chrissy: This is Rome’s idea.

Max: I’ll think about it. . .

Gwen: Yes! I’m so excited! This is a great idea, Rome :D

Ash: I’ll bring the barf bags.

Zack: Does this mean I’m the fifth wheel?

Ash: Not if Max comes.

Zack: Max, you better be free. I need a date!

Max: I said I’ll think about it!

The messages don’t stop after that. Chrissy smiles and giggles as she types away on her phone screen.

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