Page 26 of No Strings Attached
My mother’s expression brightens instantly, something flashing in her eyes. “I just thought it’d be nice to celebrate. Everyone’s here this year. That doesn’t happen often anymore.”
My heart dips. “Ma. Are you dying?”
She startles with a laugh, almost spilling her drink. “No, Henson. What kind of question is that?”
Just then, a hard smack lands on the back of my head.
“Ow! Damn it.”
My brother shakes his head. “You can’t just ask people if they’re dying, moron.”
Mom is still laughing. “Honestly, it’s sweet… in a weird, deeply concerning way.”
I rub the back of my head, grumbling. “Well, forgive me for thinking a sudden burst of sentimentality might mean something.”
“I just want to have a nice time with my family and want everyone to be happy. That’s all,” Mom says, eyes crinkling.
Still, something about the way she looks at the fire instead of me makes my stomach twist.
Worth settles in across from me with his drink, already exuding judgment. I can’t help but poke at him.
“Did you alphabetize your sweaters again this year?”
“You’re a manchild, Hen.”
I snort. “You love me.”
“I tolerate you. There’s a difference.”
I glance out at the waves rolling in just beyond the deck, and for a moment, the memory of Amira flashes behind my eyes.
I blink, clearing the image.
“You gonna mope all weekend, or are you gonna help me keep the rest of this family from killing each other?” Worth asks, scanning my face.
“I’d rather drink.”
“You’re insufferable,” Worth retorts.
“And you’re wound tighter than lights on a Christmas tree.”
“Which you’re in charge of fixing this year.”
I groan. “Fine, but I’m not wearing a damn elf hat.”
“No one asked you to.”
“Good. Because I burned the one from last year.”
“Grinch,” Worth mutters.
I roll my eyes and grunt.Grinch.
“I’m not exactly full of holiday cheer, but I still showed up. That should count for something.” Though I know full well I’m full of shit.
Mom smiles at our usual good-natured bickering and sips from her mug, an odd glint in her eye.
By the timeevening rolls around, the house is a damn circus.
