Page 16 of The Lies About Forever

Ameline: We have brunch at eleven with my grandparents, followed by dinner at Helen’s parents. Cedric tried to get away by saying Jamie invited him to spend the day with her family, but Dad didn’t allow it. Dear stepmom of hell wants to pretend that we’re a happy family.

Gabe: I take it Isadora is in town.

Ameline: Yep, she arrived last night, and even though she was trying to leave tomorrow, Dad won’t let her. Helen is organizing a big New Year’s Eve party, and they have to be there.

Gabe: They, not you?

Ameline: Not me. I’m “underage” and she doesn’t have time to babysit me. I’m to stay in my room or the media room for the night.

Gabe: Can you go to a friend’s house?

Ameline: I already tried that, but she said I need supervision.

Gabe: I swear my six-year-old brother has more independence than you.

Ameline: Right? I don’t know what her deal is, but I’m heading to college and there’s not much she can do once I’m there.

Gabe: Do you think they’ll let you choose your college?

Ameline: I hope so. Thankfully, Bainbridge Island is far enough that they won’t demand I commute every day. Is it wrong to hope that they divorce now?

Gabe: It’s understandable; she’s not a nice person—I have a better choice of words but I’d rather skip them since it’s Christmas and all that.

Ameline: My therapist thinks I need to talk to Dad, but I really don’t see the point.

Ameline: I mean, what’s there to say? ‘Your wife seems evil and is enjoying making my life miserable. Is there a way that you can upgrade her for a new model ASAP?’

Gabe: :laughing: emoji

Ameline: Don’t laugh.

Gabe: You make her sound like a car.

Ameline: Or a television . . . either way, I would like her to be gone. Christmases have never been super cozy but this one already feels too fake and painful.

Gabe: I wish I could invite you to spend it with us.

Ameline: Thank you. It’s the thought that counts.

Gabe: Hey, it’s time to move to my grandparents’ house and they don’t allow electronics. Try to enjoy your day.

Ameline: Happy Christmas, Gabe. X

Chapter Eleven

Ameline: Do you celebrate Valentine’s Day?

Gabe: If I had a girlfriend, probably.

Ameline: So, you don’t think it’s a pathetic holiday created by companies to exploit male suckers to do things they’re not ready for?

Gabe: You got to hear Cedric’s rant, too, huh?

Ameline: Yes, who knew Jamie would have wanted a ring since Christmas Day, and New Year’s, and now . . .

Gabe: So, is he gonna propose?

Ameline: Nope. Dad forbade him. According to our father, he’s not ready for marriage.

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