Page 23 of Deceived Wrath

“I love that movie.”

“Well, you have terrible taste. But I’m willing to give you a pass for today.”

I pour frothed milk into my mug. “How generous of you. But I promise you, I’m fine. You don’t need to come over and babysit me.”

“You’re sure?”

“I’m sure.”

“Well, I’m here if you need anything. Chin up, Fi. It’s just another day, ok?”

“I know.”

The call ends, and I’m once again left with my own dark and depressing thoughts.

“Fuck it.” I hit play on my phone and let some overrated pop song blast through the speaker in the hopes of absorbing some of the positivity.

I’ve barely made it to the bridge when the music cuts out from another incoming call.

I glance side long at the screen and almost drop my matcha at the sight of my brother-in-law's name.

“What the hell?”

This has to be some kind of sick joke.

I haven’t seen or spoken to Joe since the funeral, and he decides today, of all days, to break his silence?

It doesn’t make sense. Unless, of course, something has happened that trumps his need to give me the cold shoulder.

My pulse spikes as I quickly snatch up the phone and answer the call. “Are the girls ok?”

“Fiona?”

“Amber and Skye, are they all right? What’s wrong? Has something happened?—”

“Everything is fine. I just need some information from you.”

Of course, he’s not calling to apologize.

“Information? What kind of information?”

“Some health information on Carly.”

I groan. “I’m such an idiot.”

“What was that?”

“We haven’t spoken in a year, and you call me to ask about my sister's medical records? Are you kidding me?”

“Can you help or not?”

“Unbelievable! Why would I help you, Joe? As if it wasn’t bad enough losing my sister, you decided to keep my nieces from me too. You know they are the only family I have left.”

“Fiona—”

“I’m not done.”

“Well, I didn’t call just to get lectured by you.”