Page 22 of Finn

Deciding I don’t want to sit on my own, I text Seamus to see if he can come over.

Me

Are you able to come over?

Seamus

I’m out, kid. You okay?

Me

You’re out? Where are you?

Seamus

At the club with the guys, having a few drinks. I’m safe.

Son-of-a-bitch. Who the fuck does he think he is, having a drink with his brothers and mine while I sit at home alone? I know Da always used to tell me my place was in the house, and to do as I was told, but fuck that. I’m twenty-one, and I don’t want to be stuck here alone. My anger bubbles at the surface the more I think about him having fun with his brothers while I’m sat here like a goddamn loser.

Me

Hey, are you free?

Alex

Just heading out. What’s up, sweetheart?

Me

Heading out where? Can I tag along?

Alex

Did Finn say that was okay?

I sigh. I can’t believe this, even Alex is checking if Finn says I can.

Me

Never mind. Have a good night.

Alex

Now hold on there, firecracker, I didn’t say you couldn’t tag along, I just asked if Finn said it was okay. Judging by your response, I’m guessing not. We’ll be there in ten.

Looking down at my phone, shame washes over me. I was rude to her, and I shouldn’t have been, but I’m just so mad right now. I’m guessing when she said ‘we’ she meant her and Bella. I head into the kitchen and put a couple of bottles of wine into the fridge for when they get here. It’s the least I can do after I’ve hijacked their night.

Just as I’m looking through the fridge, wondering if I should cook or order in––who am I kidding? We’re ordering in, I can’t cook, but I am hungry right now––I hear Alex call out.

“Yo, firecracker, where you at?”

“Kitchen.”

“Cara…” Hearing someone excitedly call my name, I spin and come face to face with Finn’s sister.

“Niamh, how are you?” She comes up to me and gives me a hug that only a sister can, and instantly, I feel better.

“Erm… I didn’t realise you were coming tonight too. I need to put another bottle of wine or two in the fridge for you guys.”