Page 56 of Misery In Me

Gage

No, iced coffee and the scoop of protein powder you put in it doesn’t count.

This man knows me too well already

Ale

I had a protein bar.

Gage

JFC

Gage

Amor, please. Don’t make me come home and sit you in my lap and feed you myself.

Ale

You’re not helping the situation.

Gage

Be a good girl and eat for me. Gotta have you all fueled up for later.

Ale

Seriously?! Aren’t you running on empty yet?

Gage

Not even close.

The weather has been absolutelygorgeous out and while I’ve been taking Zoe out in the backyard for some outdoor tummy time, I think it would be nice to get her out of the house for things other than doctor appointments or errands. I’m hoping I can convince Gage to get one of the nice jogging strollers so I can go running with her.Speaking of money.I need to call Tia to see how Pedro and Juanita are. It’s getting to be that time where they will need groceries and help with the bills.

Zoe has been down for over an hour for her midday nap, which I am totally taking advantage of. I’ve gotten two loads of laundry washed and folded and prepped the ingredients for dinner tonight. My phone vibrates in my dress pocket and I fish it out, pausing the music and checking my texts.

Pedro

Tia doesn’t know I have this phone, so please don’t tell her. I found an apartment for after graduation. Juanita can stay with me. Are you okay with that?

My fifteen-year-old sister and eighteen-year-old brother living on their own. I’m not crazy about the idea.

Ale

I don’t know, Pedro. I’m thinking of bringing Juanita here to be with me.

Pedro

She doesn’t want to leave Mexico. Neither do I.

Ale

Pedro, it might be for the best.

Pedro

Best for whom, you? Why don’t you come back?

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