FIFTY TWO

Derek:

Shit.

This was the worst time for Alisha to be near here right now. I turned and could see her floundering, looking caught.

“Uh… well-“ she stammered.

What do I do?

“Alisha, dear,” i heard my mother and saw her walking up behind Alisha.

Gerard noticed her as well and I could hear him shift beside me.

“Melissa- i mean…” Alisha looked uncomfortable, but relaxed visibly when my mother put an arm on her shoulder.

“I’m sorry for stressing you out this morning to come over quickly. I know you have to go to work,” my mother emphasized, giving me a look. And I caught on.

“How did the checkup go?” I asked, and Alisha turned to look at me with bewildered eyes. “Well?” I asked her seemingly impatient.

“Derek, don’t be rude,” my mother cautioned me, playing along. “She said I was getting better. So don’t be up in arms over it. I’m only grateful she could come over on such short notice to check on me this morning.”

It was then I saw Alisha take the hint and she nodded awkwardly.

“Right,” s