Page 9 of Creed

Me:

It is.

Laura:

Then why are they going over to asshat’s?

Me:

He’s taking them to the lake.

Laura:

Of course, he is.

But it doesn’t matter because you and me are going to have

a much-needed night out! I have to work Friday, so let’s plan for

Saturday.

Me:

Yes! Sounds good. Where are we going?

Laura:

Leave that up to me.

Just dress in your slutty best and be ready by seven.

Me:

My slutty best?

Laura:

Get creative.

Me:

I’ll do my best.

Laura:

Yay! I’m excited! See you Saturday!

Before I could respond,there was a light knock at my door. Knowing it was one of the kids, I answered, “Come in.”

The door eased open, and Chrissy, my beautiful, precious daughter, stepped inside. She looked so much like me it was scary. We had the same long, wavy blonde hair, the same brown eyes, and even the same smile. But today, there was no smile. Just a heavy look in her eyes like there was something on her mind.

She was wearing her favorite old cut-off shorts that were at least a size too big and a little tank top that had clearly seen better days. A sliver of her belly peeked out when she shifted. I opened my mouth, half a second from saying something motherly, something I doubted she wanted to hear, so I kept my thoughts to myself instead.

“Hey, baby,” I said gently, patting the spot beside me even though I knew she wouldn’t take it. “You okay?”

She mumbled something, then shook her head and asked, “Do you know where my swimsuit is?”

“Top drawer in the bathroom. It’s under your extra towels,” I answered, watching her closely.