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“Okie dokie.” In Daphne fashion, she drops the subject and returns her gaze to the television show while I finish my meal. The food is delicious, and I devour every bite despite it now being cold. I’m half-tempted to lick my plate but refrain…just barely.
“How is it that you and Leanna are twins but yet nothing alike?” I ask.
“Because we’re fraternal twins, silly.”
“I know that. But I figure there must be some similarities between the two of you since you shared the same womb. But you guys are like night and day. You can cook while Leanna burns water. You like to shop and get your nails done, while your sister likes rock climbing and paintballing.”
“Hey! I like paintball, too! Don’t forget that I participate in our family’s annual paintball challenge every December!”
“Once a year does not mean you love the sport. But seriously, you two are polar opposites in every way.” Her face scrunches up as if I had insulted her. “In a good way, Daphne. I mean it. You each have your own strengths and admirable qualities. You balance each other out.”
“I know what you mean. Leanna is just like our mom in both looks and disposition. I take after our dad as if I’m his ‘mini-me.’ My parents’ personalities complement one another for the most part, but when they clash, watch out! Irish versus Italian can get pretty heated, each wanting to get in the last word.”
“Um. I’m aware. I’ve stood on the sidelines and refereed a few arguments between you and your sister.”
“I remember. I also remember that you popped a bag of popcorn and sat on the couch while you watched.” I bob my head because she’s not lying. It was better than going to any boxing match or mixed martial arts competition.
Her phone dings with an incoming text, and I take that as my cue to clear the plates. Once Daphne gets started texting, she can go for hours. The rule in this house is that whoever cooks doesn’t clean, which often leaves Leanna doing most of the dishes when she’s home. This time, it’s my turn. I’m putting the last pan in the dishwasher when Daphne walks in.
“That was quick,” I tell her, surprised.
“That’s because it was Sebastian. He had to keep it short because he’s at work, but he wants to know if you have given any more thought about going on the family ski retreat.”
As much as I would like to go, I can’t afford to give up my vacation time. I use it to return home every few months and fix up the house I grew up in. When my Pops passed away last year, he left the place to me. It’s a dilapidated shack in Iowa that needs to be torn down, but I don’t have the heart to do it. Other than some fond memories, it’s the only thing I have left of my father.
“I appreciate the invite, but I can’t. I have too many obligations that prevent me from going. I hope you guys have fun, and maybe next year, things will be different.”
Daphne frowns, and I can tell she’s disappointed by my answer. She quickly types out something on her phone, and I assume it’s to inform Sebastian of my decision. “Just so you know, my parents are booking an eight-bedroom cabin for the trip, leaving one room available. If the opportunity presents itself and you change your mind, you’re still welcome to come.”
“Thank you,” I tell her, and I genuinely mean it. “I think it’s time for me to head to bed. I have to go to work for a debriefing in the morning before I get the next few days off.”
“Yeah, me too. I don’t have a debriefing, but I do have a long drive for the project I’m working on in Medford. Thankfully, the structural engineer I’m working with is gorgeous enough to make the distance worth it.” She winks before saying goodnight.
As I head upstairs, my thoughts drift back to Leanna. My feelings for her are becoming harder and harder to deny, and if there were one person I could envision forever with, it would be my best friend.
When Melissa left me, I was deeply hurt but managed to survive. If I were to lose Leanna, it would utterly destroy me. I’d rather have our friendship than nothing at all.
Chapter five
Leanna
WhenIreturnedhomethis morning after my long shift, I had hoped to find Carter awake so I could apologize to him for my odd behavior. I’m not sure if he believed my reasons for locking myself in the bathroom, but it doesn’t matter. He knew something wasn’t right, and regardless of my excuse, I felt the need to set the matter straight. I didn’t get the opportunity because his car was absent from the driveway, and the house was silent when I arrived.
After kicking off my shoes by the front door, I noticed a note on the breakfast bar next to a bottle of Midol. I opened the slip of paper to find it written in Daphne’s print.
To my favorite twin,
Carter said you were having woman troubles and feeling under the weather. While I’m pretty sure he’s the “trouble” you were having, I thought I’d leave the medication for you in case I’m wrong. Also, if you’re looking for Carter, he had to go into the city for a debriefing and should be back this afternoon. This should give you plenty of time to rest and be your beautiful self by the time he gets back.
It’s been a long time since you’ve asked my advice on anything, but I’m going to give it to you anyway. Please tell Carter how you feel about him, Leanna. Hiding in a bathroom is not the solution to your problems, and it won’t get any easier. You’re going to make yourself sick (for real) by keeping it bottled up inside. Go big or go home, baby sister!
Love,
Your older and wiser twin
I smiled at my sister’s thoughtfulness, knowing she only had my best interest at heart. Despite her sage words of wisdom, I will not be taking her advice on this matter. It’s not her that has everything to lose.
I took a quick shower and got ready for bed. I closed my blackout curtains and cozied up under my comforter, falling asleep almost as soon as my head hit the pillow. I don’t think I moved an inch until a noise downstairs woke me up.
