Chemistry Countdown (Part 5 of 10)
Her father, who hadn't spoken a word since sitting down at the table, was hiding behind the local paper. Mary could see an article about their bookstore on the back. Apparently, the town was...
Mary sat at the table across from her younger sister, Melissa. Melissa was still in her twenties for another three years. Her father, who hadn’t spoken a word since sitting down at the table, was hiding behind the local paper. Mary could see an article about their bookstore on the back. Apparently, the town was expecting it to close in the new year.
“Dad,” said Mary. “What’s that article about?”
“Hm?” He turned the paper around to see what she was looking at. “Speculation. They’re running out of things to print,” he replied.
“I’ve already sent a letter to the paper telling them we’re doing just fine,” said her mother. “You know, if one of you girls worked at the bookstore, articles like this wouldn’t be coming out.”
“We’ll be fine, Linda,” said her father. “When we’re ready to retire, we’ll sell the store.” He let out a heavy sigh. “Of course, we would’ve liked to pass it on, but you each have your careers.” He folded his paper and set it next to the fork and knife at his side. “Should we eat?”
The first night at her parents’ was always the hardest. Mary tried to get comfortable in the twin sized bed she grew up in, but it was long overdue for a replacement. Instead, she stared up at plastic stars she’d super-glued to the ceiling when she was seven. She swore there was a purpose for each placement. A fading memory of having created her own constellations crossed her mind. Was that a triceratops?
Mary left her parents, with her sister Melany at her side, to get coffee for the family from the local coffeehouse. As they drove, despite Melany’s disapproval, they listened to Christmas music.
“It’s still the twelve days of Christmas,” said Mary.
“Whatever you say,” replied her sister. “This wouldn’t be happening if we took my car.”
“You were too afraid of spilling coffee on the seat of your rental. Maybe next year.”
“I’ve never been one for road trips. You and dad always enjoyed those. Speaking of cars, have you talked to Justin since yesterday?”
“What? Why would I have talked to Justin? He’s just an old friend.”
“Right. Just an old friend. We’ll see.”
“What are you up to?”
“Nothing…”
Thank you for reading Part 5 of Chemistry Countdown. Do you think Mary’s sister is up to something? What might she have planned? Find out what the big surprise is next week!
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