Chapter 24 My Twin Venus Franco

I just have enough time to drop the satchel before catching my sister as she throws her arms around my neck.

She smacks a kiss on my cheek. “You’re back.” Laughing, she lets me go and wipes something from my face, presumably her lipstick. “You should’ve told me. I would’ve come home straight after my last class instead of going to the library.”

My mother gives an awkward smile before slinking away, allowing us space as if she’s not welcome in our circle. Like an outsider. Guilt constricts my chest as I follow her retreat with my gaze over Venus’s shoulder.

“Hey,” Venus says, punching me in the stomach. “I’m talking to you.”

“Quiet.” I glance at the library. “Papa is sleeping.”

She blows out a breath. “It’s been hard.” Then her expression brightens. “But the doctor reckons he’ll be fine in a couple of days. It’s only a cold.” She picks up the satchel and hooks her arm around mine. “Have you eaten? If I know Mama, she’s been cooking all day. Let’s grab a hot chocolate and you can tell m