My cousin unfolded her long body out of the driver’s seat and just stood there outside the car, staring at the house.
“I never thought I’d say this, but hurry up, Jake,” I said. “Maggie’s here.”
Jake needed no further urging. He erupted like Mount St. Helen’s, sending molten lava straight into my belly button.
“Wow. That was a doozy,” Jake said. “Bye the way, what’s your cousin doing here, anyway?”
“Oh you know Maggie. She’d never think about calling first to see if it’s convenient for us. She just shows up. You’d almost think she owned the place. Pull up your pants, Jake.”
Jake complied. “She does have a point, you know.”
“About what?”
“About having a claim. Your mother did practically bring her up, and didn’t Maggie spend time here too when she was growing up?”
“Yeah, but Grandma Canon left the house to me not Maggie.” unannounced.”
“Why don’t you tell her to leave then?”
“Nah. We haven’t seen her for more than ages. I’d better go help her with her bags.”
“I’d do it Em, but I’m still not supposed to lift more than ten pounds.”
“Isn’t that getting kind of old? It’s been six months six you pulled the disc in your back.”
““Okay. I’m getting up.” He winced hugely. “There, I hope that makes you happy.”
“Go lie down again, Jake. Don’t be such a martyr.”
I went outside to greet Maggie. She raised her arms out towards me so I had no choice but to embrace her. “Emily, long time, no see,” she said.
“I see you haven’t given up smoking yet.” I released myself from Maggie’s arms to emphasize the point.
“Well, you know, I’m under a lot of stress right now, what with trying to clear up my desk before I leave for Dubai.”
“Excuses, excuses. Here, shove one of those suitcases over to me. How long are you able to stay?”
