Tessie D

Something still feels off. 

When I got home from school yesterday, Momma was in the kitchen wiping off the countertops with a dishrag. We started talking about the job and for a moment, I felt like I was playing make believe, pretending to be an adult. 

Alec had called while I was at school to talk about my work schedule. I’m supposed to start training on Friday night. 

All Momma could talk about was how charming and handsome he sounded over the phone. 

“How would you know that he’s handsome just from the sound of his voice?” I asked. 

“Oh, a woman can tell, she has a way of knowing something like that.” 

By the time he told Momma how much money most of the waitresses make in tips during the weekends, she was completely in love with him. 

“He said most of the other girls make $50 a night in tips but that someone as agreeable and beautiful as you are would make so much more. You’re gonna do so good,” Momma grinned. “This is going to be wonderful. For you, for us. And, he promised to look out for you, too. Make sure that you’re taken good care of since y’all are related.”

I told her that I wasn’t sure and that something felt off. I didn’t tell her about the strawberry. What was there to say? He gave me a piece of fruit? 

Momma said that she didn’t understand. I’d have to get a job sooner or later, and now is as good a time as any. “After all, everyone works.”

Well, not everyone, I thought looking over at Daddy. 

I know that Momma’s excited but something just feels off. Not right, but I can’t figure out what. I think I would’ve felt better if I’d at least gotten to meet my aunt. It just feels weird to be talking to someone only a few years older than me. Still, I don’t know what that especially matters. It’s not as if my aunt knows me. Alec said she’s never even at the restaurant. 

It doesn’t really matter, though. We need the money.