Bracing myself

Alexander looked down at my phone, which had been buzzing incessantly on the car seat. He glanced up, his expression hardening with suspicion.

"Who keeps calling you?" he asked, his voice low and demanding.

His question caught me off guard, and I swallowed nervously. "Oh, it's...it's just a friend," I lied, my voice shaky.

The car pulled up in front of the house and I quickly hopped out, my steps leading me towards the garden and away from Alexander. I wanted some privacy for this conversation.

I walked quickly until I reached a secluded part of the garden, away from any curious eyes or ears. Once I was sure I was alone, I answered the call, my heart pounding.

"Iris." My sister's voice was strained, tears evident in every syllable. "Mama is sick. She's asking for you."

My heart twisted in my chest, and I felt tears welling up in my own eyes. Hearing the words 'mama is sick' was like a dagger to my heart.