Inside, the hallway smelled like cinnamon buns and craft glue. I took a step forward and paused when I heard Jenna’s voice from the kitchen.
It wasn’t warm or gentle. It was low and cutting, like a whisper wrapped in ice.
« Girls, you are not going to be staying here for long. So, don’t get too comfortable. James is doing what he can, but I mean… »
I froze. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing.
« I’m not wasting the final years of my 20s raising someone else’s kids, » Jenna continued. « A foster family would be much better for you anyway. At least they’ll know how to deal with your… sadness. Now, when the final adoption interview is scheduled, I want you both to say that you want to leave. Understand? »
There was silence. Then a soft, choked sound.
« Don’t cry, Maya, » Jenna snapped. « I’m warning you. If you cry again, I’ll take your notebooks and throw them away. You need to grow up before you keep writing your silly stories in them. »
« But we don’t want to leave, » Maya whispered. « We want to stay with James. He’s the best brother in the world. »
I felt my stomach twist.
« You don’t get to want anything. Go do your homework, girls. Hopefully, you’ll be out of my hair in a few weeks, and I can go back to my wedding planning. Don’t worry, you’ll still be invited, of course. But don’t think that you’ll be… bridesmaids or anything. »
