Twelve Steps to Normal(60)
I grab an apple from the fruit bowl. “I’m going to be late.”
Then I leave. I tell myself it’s not as harsh as it feels.
My lunch period was spent listening to Raegan discuss Leadership Council plans for the homecoming dance while Whitney ran through her hair, nails, and makeup appointments with Jay, who seemed like he was only half-interested. But when Jay mentioned his “brilliant idea”—his words—of having the guys’ basketball team moon the Homecoming King and Queen during the first dance, Raegan almost snapped the pencil she was holding before going off on him. After my recent revelation, I was certain that any feelings I may still have had toward him had completely evaporated.
I’m pulling into the driveway after the homecoming parade—which was organized flawlessly, all thanks to Raegan—when I spot a black sedan I don’t recognize in front of my house. I slide the gear in Park and step out as Margaret emerges from the car.
All the blood in my body freezes.
She’s smiling happily as she walks over to me, her tall heels clacking on the pavement. When she removes her Audrey Hepburn–style sunglasses, I’m relieved to see that she doesn’t have any concern expressed across her face.
“Hello, Kira!” she says, her tone friendly. “I know this is unexpected, but I was in the neighborhood and thought I’d swing by.”
I try and keep the panic off my face as a million different thoughts churn in my brain at once. Does she suspect something? Did the neighbors report unusual behavior of us having too much company here? No, that couldn’t happen. Because even if they did, how would they know Margaret is my social worker?
“Oh, well, I guess you have good timing.” I hold up my dance bag. “I’m just getting home from practice.”
She nods, looking toward the front door. “Mind if I do a walk-through?”
This is a nightmare. I can’t outright say no, because then it’ll definitely look suspicious. I also have no idea who’s home right now, waiting to give away all the big secrets I’ve conveniently left out of my conversations with Margaret. Despite fighting with my dad and Peach over my grades, I wasn’t ready for this moment. I’m happy here. I can’t be sent off again.
I do my best to give an easygoing shrug. “Sure.”
We walk up the front porch, and my hands shake as I unlock the front door. When I start to open it, there’s a booming woof as Wallis comes charging toward us.
I take hold of Wallis’s collar, but don’t put too much effort into stopping him from jumping on Margaret. Maybe Wallis’s enthusiasm will make her uncomfortable, therefore getting her out of here quicker.
“Well, this is certainly a new addition.”
“Yeah, he’s our rescue.” Wallis rubs his nose over her pencil skirt, and she takes a tiny step back. “He’s good. Just extremely friendly.”
“Mmm.” Her eyes wander down the hall that leads to the living room, and I’m relieved to see that no one’s occupying it. Still, I can’t let go of the anxiety in my chest as she moves onward. If anyone is here, I hope to whatever higher power exists that they don’t choose now to come out and say hello.
“Your father isn’t home?” Margaret says once she’s surveyed the kitchen.
His car wasn’t in the driveway, so I know he’s not here. It’s a miracle that no one else is home, and I don’t need anyone walking in right this second. I have no idea how I would explain.
“Still at work,” I tell her, still trying to figure out how to end this as quickly as possible. “Sometimes they need him to stay a bit later.”
She nods. It’s hard to read her expression, but she doesn’t seem troubled. “I have confirmed that your father is continuing his AA meetings.”
This doesn’t surprise me, especially since he’d told me he was in touch with Michael. He really is committing to his sobriety.
“And counseling,” I add, hoping she can’t sense the anxiety in my voice.
“Good, good.” She takes another look around as Wallis sniffs at her ankles. “I was hoping to check on him, but seeing you was really the goal. Let me ask you this, though. Have you picked up on anything that could be considered out of the ordinary for him? Any unusual behaviors?”
The truth gathers on the tip of my tongue. What if I told her, admitted everything about the recoverees living here? She might be able to use her power to kick everyone else out without sending me back to Aunt June. It’s a tempting thought, but one I’m not willing to risk.
I shake my head.
“We’ve been good, really. But I have your number and, honestly, I appreciate you being here for me.”
It’s blatant sweet talk, but not necessarily untrue. Still, Margaret looks pleased. “Of course, of course. I’ll get out of your way.” She gives Wallis a reluctant pat on the head, and the touch of affection causes him to happily roll over onto his back.
As we’re walking out to her car, I spot a familiar figure walking down the sidewalk in the distance. No, no, no. It’s Saylor. My heart pounds as Margaret digs through her purse for her keys. If she sees him come inside, then it’s over. Done. She’ll find out I lied and will call my dad and—
A short beep sounds as Margaret unlocks her car, then slides inside. I look back down the sidewalk to see Saylor’s an uncomfortably close distance away.