LET’S MOVE FORWARD AS A FAMILY

"Her room is the pink door at the far end," Uncle James said

I nodded, took my bag from the floor and climbed the stairs towards the pink door. I knocked softly and heard a voice call out "coming"

The door opened, revealing Ruth. Her face shifted from surprise to irritation as her eyes moved to my luggage. " what are you doing here?" She asked harshly, her tone sharp.

I frowned confused by her sudden hostility. This wasn't the warm, cheerful Ruth who had greeted me earlier. It felt she had two completely different personalities.

Calming myself, I replied, " Uncle James said I should share a room with you." I hesitated before continuing " He said he'd clear the guest room soon so that I can move in."

Ruth's expression turned stormy. " My room is small; it can't accommodate the both of us. And why are you even calling my Dad 'Uncle' when you have no relation to him? Get out!" She shouted.

Her words pierced my heart, but before I could respond, I heard Uncle James voice from the stairs. "I didn't expect you to treat Anaya this way, Ruth. Weren't you the one wanting to hug her earlier? What changed? "His tone was stern as he climbed up.

Ruth flinched when she heard her Father, her anger replaced by guilt .

I don't know you to be this rude. Anaya is two years older than you are. And if you don't know , she's your cousin. Her mother is my younger sister. I want you to give her the respect she deserves," he said firmly.

Of course I know , her mother is the woman uncle Assey impregnated Ruth thought and sneered

"Ruth widened her eyes while covering her mouth, her expression shifting to shock. " Is Anaya the niece you told me about?" She asked, her voice softer now.

Realizing how far she has gone, she took a deep breath and turned to me. " I'm sorry sister Anaya for yelling at you , and turning to her father she said I'm sorry Dad, you know I don't like sharing my room with anyone; that's why I reacted the way I did."

Though her apology sounded sincere , her eyes betrayed her . I chose to let go and forced a smile. "It's okay Ruth."

Uncle James nodded in approval. "Good. Now let's move forward as a family."