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“Yeah. Life has been a bit complicated lately.”
I turn back to Malia. She puts on gloves before going to her pastry display and grabbing a gluten free chocolate cookie for Gabe and two of her strawberry cheesecake crescent rolls for me and Trina.
“Is everything okay?”
Since the first day I met Malia, we’ve clicked. Not only does my son seem to love her, but she has been so nice and inviting to me and him. Considering I never had many friends growing up—mostly due to me and my issues—it was nice making a new friend.
“As okay as it can be. Em and I had some changes at home with my Grams moving out. And then my boyfriend is having some family issues. His brother is missing.”
I’ve only met Malia’s man once in passing. He didn’t even notice me as he walked by me and out the door.
“I’m so sorry to hear that. I hope they find him soon.”
I follow Malia over to the register where she places two empty cups down beside my food. I’ve been here so many times and ordered the same thing, she doesn’t even have to ask me what I want anymore.
Pulling out my debit card, I hand it to her. She rings up my stuff before handing me the card back.
“If I know Lucien,” She continues. “He will find his brother. I just hate seeing him worried.”
I could only imagine what her boyfriend must be going through. If Trina ever took missing I’d be crazy. Sadly, I can’t exactly say the same thing for my actual sibling.
“Well, if you need anything, I’m here to help. Even if it’s passing out flyers or watching Emory for you.”
Malia smiles. “Thanks Summer, I appreciate that.”
“No problem.”
A commotion over by the fireplace has us turning in that direction. One of the kids has fallen and the others are laughing.
“Let me go read this book before these kids get restless.”
I grab my bag of pastries and two cups off the counter. Finding a seat by the window, I place my things down before going to fix my and Trina’s drink. As I’m walking back to my table my phone pings.
After placing the drinks down, I fish the phone out of my pocket and take my seat before looking at the text message.
Unsaved Number: This is Gabriel.
My heart gallops, knocking against my chest. A smile spreads over my face, but quickly disappears when a thought comes to mind.
Me: When did you get my number?
Unsaved Number: The day I had the phone set up.
I tamp down on the anger that spreads throughout me. He’s had my number all this time and never once thought about using it? It never crossed my mind to question who set the phone up. I just assumed it was Fem. As I said, the moment I got out of rehab, I was picked up and immediately taken to a brand new fully furnished house. Along with all my new stuff, was a shiny new cellphone.
I knew Gabriel was paying the bills because I’ve never seen a letter come to the house or gotten a call from a collector. I just never considered he would have the number and until this day, never used it.
Me: Wow! So you’ve had my number for five years and it never crossed your mind to call?
I watch as the bubble appears on the screen, I wait for his response, hoping it’s a good one.
Unsaved Number: Save this number.
Without him having to say it, I knew this conversation was over. I was never going to get an answer to my question. Rolling my eyes and sucking my teeth I toss my phone on top of the table and sink back into my chair.
“Well hey to you too,” Trina says, taking a seat in the chair across from me.
“Hey, girl,”
