Page 25 of Enough

“I’m just merely saying. I called the house last night and mom told me you were on a date.”

“So what, I don’t get to date?”

“If you want to be frivolous, you should hire someone to take care of mom while you’re doing, whatever it is that you do.”

Claudia was on boil. “You have some nerve.” Claudia glanced at the man standing patiently waiting for her. She pulled the phone from her ear and silently apologized.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered, “I need to take this phone call, so I’ll have to come back another time.” Claudia pulled a business card from her wallet and handed it to the man. “If you could send me a quote for the dates we spoke about via email that would be great.”

“No problem, I’ll be in touch, Mrs. Stevens.”

Claudia didn’t bother to correct him on his salutation, opting to leave the building before the man decided not to rent her anything once her conversation with Desiree got out of control. Stepping through the double doors to the sidewalk Claudia slid the phone back to her ear.

“Look, if you have a problem with the way I’m taking care of mom, you’re more than welcome to come over here and do it yourself. I’m sure you have all the time in the world since you have no man, no life, and no business.” The words were meant to sting, and they had their intended effect.

“Oh wait, that’s right, you can’t take an hour lunch break because of your demanding job let alone look after your mother. You can’t even make a trip to see her less than every six months.” Claudia held her hand out and began a slow clap. “Congratulations, smart ass, you played yourself.”

And with that Claudia disconnected the call. She paced back and forth in front of the building before deciding to cross the street to her Toyota. If it was one thing Desiree could do well, it was get up underneath her skin.

By the time Claudia made it back to the car her phone was ringing again.

“What!” she snapped.

The caller hesitated before speaking. “Am I catching you at a bad time?”

All the rage Claudia was feeling dissipated instantly at the sound of Jaden’s voice. Her eyes closed and she sighed. “I’m sorry Jaden, I didn’t even bother looking at the screen before I answered.”

“Then I can be relieved that your vicious tone wasn’t meant for me?”

“Of course not, I’m sorry, it’s my sister.”

“Would you like to talk about it?”

The more he spoke, the more her anger subsided.

“Not really.”

“I would like to see you if that’s possible.”

Her line beeped, and sure enough, it was Desiree. A wave of anger returned. “I’m sorry Jaden, I need to call you back.”

“Do what you have to do, chérie.”

“You know what,” Claudia said. “On second thought, is it okay if I come to you?”

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