Yet I can still only conjure a polite smile from him, and that's from time to time.
If I were to be honest, I'm frustrated and feel a little crazy.
But what is there to be angry about?
He has aquatinted himself with the family, and has done everything right.
Bill is respectful, and responsible.. and I, simply have a school girl crush.
Therefore, I'll get over it... I have to.
———
"HEAVENS!!" This morning Mother shouts frantically through the house. "TESSA!! SHE'S GONE!!"
Barefooted and in nothing but my gown, I hop clean out of bed..
In Tessa's room I find my mother crouched over Tessa's empty sheets, howling in fear.
The window is open and I'm 100% sure that Tessa snuck out and shimmied down the gutters once again. If I hurry, I may catch her before she does anything rash.
In comes Bill, also awoken by my mother's screams.
"Dolly, Mrs. Josephine!" He begins. "What's wrong, what can I do?"
Halting my dress up to run after Tessa, I pass by them both.
"There's nothing you can do." I mumble by him, annoyed with absolutely everything today.
I hit the porch barefooted, and soon find myself sprinting down our drive way and the dirt road, shouting eagerly for Tessa.
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About a farm away from entering town is when I catch up to her and quickly grab hold of her.
"Oh DeeDee!" She rejoices, thinking That my grasp is a hug. "You joined me!!"
"Tessa!" I shout barely catching my breath. "What did we say about this! No bakery, no candy!"
"Don't worry sissy!" She smiles widely. "I brought money."
Out of the pocket of her gown, she flashes one penny, a button, and a bottle cap.
I sigh.
Not even enough to buy our way into hell.
Some days like today, I grow completely weak and tired...
I begin to feel like all of the love and work I constantly pour into my little sister is for absolutely nothing.
Exhausted tears begin to roll down my face.
"Oh Tessa." I laugh defeated and hugging her tightly. "Let's get you home sugar.."
I wrap my arms around her shoulders as we begin to walk back home.
"Mama's terrified.. and going to let the both of us have it." I continue. "Look at us.. barefooted and in nightgowns.. we look crazy!"
