I Never Liked You

VIVIENNE

“Vince, Vera, come here,” I called out. The kids came running down the hallway, already dressed and excited for their stay at their dad’s.

I already made sure that Vince and Vera’s bags were packed and ready for their stay at Ezekiel’s house. I double-checked everything—clothes, toothbrushes, books, gadgets, and their favorite toys.

I didn’t want them missing anything, especially since they’d be staying for a few days.

I could already feel the slight anxiety bothering me, even though I knew they’d be fine. It was just hard to let them go, even if it was just to their father’s house.

They always had different views about these kinds of things—Vera being excited about the experience, while Vince was more hesitant. Still, they had agreed to it, and I had to trust that everything would go smoothly.

“Now, listen,” I started, crouching down to their level. “I want you both to be on your best behavior when you’re with your dad and your grandparents. Don’t be stubborn, okay?”

Vera