Page 29 of Love in Development

It was Dad.“Hey, Sugarplum.Something’s come up and I can’t get you today.”

I heard a giggle in the background.Either Val was still a thing, or Dad had already moved on.I didn’t know why he kept pretending as if he cared.

“Some other time.Right, kiddo?”

Had he forgotten that I was months away from turning eighteen and that today was Christmas?It wasn’t like Christmas would be happening next week.A half-sob, half laugh explosion of air escaped my mouth.“Whatever.”

I hung up before I embarrassed myself by crying.Or worse, yelled at him like Mom.

Humming came from behind the door.Mom.What was I going to tell her?I couldn’t ruin her Christmas too.Quickly, as if I had taken a speed potion, I shrugged into my jacket, pocketed my keys, and yelled goodbye while walking my bike out the door.I could go to Lin’s, but I couldn’t stay for Mom to ask questions.

About halfway there, cold, rainy slush began to fall, and I detoured to DragonByte before my hands froze off.It was truly a gamer’s haven, at least for this gamer on Christmas Day.I could call Lin to come pick me up from there.

Luckily, Buzz catered to all religions, which meant DragonByte closed for no holidays.He just alternated days off with the staff.So the place was about half-full with all those who didn’t celebrate Christmas.Or those who thought this was the best way to celebrate the holiday.I was starting to lean in that direction.

Buzz was used to my cell-less self, requesting the use of his phone, and I dialed Lin.I actually had to memorize numbers, unlike everyone else I knew.She answered, but there was a lot of noise in the background.“Lin?”

“Merry Christmas, Molly!Guess who showed up this morning?My parents.It’s the best surprise!”She went on to tell me all the plans they had for that day.And while I was happy for her, I got a little depressed.Charisse, too, was with family.

I smiled into the phone as I said goodbye—no sense in ruining her mood—then looked around.The nasty stuff was still falling outside, so I was stuck here.I could think of worse ways to spend the holidays.I had access to frozen pizzas reheated in the oven like the one I smelled now, and free computer time on a fast gaming computer that ran COTSA.

I slipped upstairs to number twelve, open as usual, and logged in.ScarlettSaber hacked and slashed his way through enemies, picking up some loot along the way.For once, I didn’t let myself worry about how rare it was or how much it was worth.Though my inability to go to SCAD with my friends weighed on me.

IK interrupted a skirmish with my least favorite, super-fast jungle warriors with spears.What was he doing on?He had a family.I checked the time; hours had passed.Maybe his family stuff was already over.I should head home soon.

ScarlettSaber: Hey.Y R U here?

IvoryKnight: Hey.Meet me at the overview?

ScarlettSaber: OMW.

It was silly; we weren’t really face-to-face.But there was something about being in our special place together when we talked.I was glad that I wasn’t the only one who felt that way.

IvoryKnight: I just finished watching a princess movie with my little sis.Parents make us go to fancy dinners, family gatherings, and midnight masses on Christmas Eve and Christmas night, so we get to do whatever we want during the day.

ScarlettSaber: Already all played out with your toys?

IvoryKnight: Hah.I got gift cards.My parents dont bother thinking about what to get me anymore.Why arent you doing family stuff?

ScarlettSaber: My mom and I did our thing yesterday but Dad bailed on me today.

IvoryKnight: Sorry, that sucks.What about friends?

ScarlettSaber: We had fun the other night but theyre busy today.Speaking of, I didnt want to hurt their feelings but I made a promise I cant keep.

I told him about the situation with the house and the tuition and how I had felt trapped into saying yes.

IvoryKnight: Im sure it will all work out.Do your best to apply for scholarships and such.If you cant get in, just tell them.Theyll understand.

ScarlettSaber: You dont get it.If I tell Lin I cant, she will invade the office and force them to give me a free ride.

IvoryKnight: ROFL.I dont think she can actually do that.

ScarlettSaber: I wouldnt put it past her.

A loud crack of thunder had me glancing at the windows.The sleet had turned to rain.

ScarlettSaber: At times like these I wish I had a car.