Page 1 of Rocky

“What the hellis going on today? Why are we so busy?” Rosemary complained under her breath.

“I was thinking the same thing, but let’s be grateful,” I told my younger sister.

My five younger sisters and I owned and operated a flower shop called Bloom. It had been an unusually busy day, considering no special events were happening, and it wasn’t a holiday that people tended to buy flowers.

“Oh, I’m grateful. I’m just a little confused. This is the first break we’ve had since we opened.”

“And the timing is perfect because I have to go pick up Briar from the youth center when Daisy gets here.”

“How does he like this new center? I haven’t had a chance to talk to him since you made the switch.”

“He loves it so far, but it’s only been a few weeks. His friend, Roman, is there, so I’m sure that helps.”

“I don’t know why you didn’t enroll him in that one in the first place. It’s closer and has more programs.”

“Because his father agreed to pay for it and pick him up if he went to the one on the Westside.”

“I can’t believe you were foolish enough to believe him. That nigga ain’t followed through on a single thing since the day Briar was born.”

“True, but you know me…always the optimistic one.”

“What did he say when you told him you switched centers?”

“Tuh. Nothing. He hasn’t realized it yet.”

She gasped. “Are you serious?”

“As hell.”

“Sis, it’s been weeks.”

“I know, and he hasn’t mentioned anything about Briar not being there.”

Rosemary shook her head in disgust. “You’re better than me. I would’ve stopped communicating with him when his ass didn’t show up at the hospital when Briar was born.”

“Whatever, Rose. We’ve had this conversation numerous times and don’t need to have it again. I’m well aware that Deacon is an asshole and a poor excuse for a father.”

“You—”

“I’m sorry I’m late. I got out of class late,” Daisy announced when she rushed inside.

“It’s cool, sis. I’m about to head out to pick up your nephew. Do I need to come back to close?”

“No, ma’am. Blossom will be here to close with me. I’ll see you at home,” Daisy said.

I said goodbye to my sisters and left the flower shop. Once I was in my car and my phone was connected to the Bluetooth, I called my sister Sage.

“Hey, Rue.”

“Hey, are you still at school?”

“Yeah. I’m waiting for Violet. Ms. B wanted to talk to her.”

“Why? Did something happen?”

“Not that I know of, but I’ll find out.”

“If it’s something serious?—”

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