CHAPTER 048: Dysfunctional Family

Veronica, my older sister, seems completely unaware of the tension. She pushes past me, barely looking my way as she mutters, “Desiree, you look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

“Probably me,” Luke jokes, following behind Veronica, smelling like weed.

I honestly don't care what they do or say. My heart is pounding in my chest. Mike and Mabel are here, and even though I’ve rehearsed this moment a million times in my head, I’m suddenly not sure it’s going to go as planned.

Jessica, sensing how tense I am, moves closer, placing a comforting hand on my shoulder. “Are you okay, Dee?” she asks, her voice low and serious.

“Turn around,” I say, barely able to get the words out.

Jessica does, and the moment she catches sight of them, her entire body goes stiff. “Dee, why would you do this? Are you trying to get me convicted for murder?”

“Just act natural, Jess,” I whisper urgently, trying to keep my panic at bay.

“Natural?!”

I give her a quick pinch on the arm, causing her to yelp. “Can you keep yo