The Babysitter and the Sisterly Trio/ChapterVIII/Knock at Door
I've gotten all my work done by mid afternoon. I'd just sit back in front of my TV to relax for a bit when the phone rings. Groaning, I get up off my couch and grab the house phone off its charger.
I answer the phone. "Hello? This is Rei speaking."
"Rei? It's Laura from next door. The girls really want to have some kind of big sleepover in our basement tonight with you. They told me you already agreed and I don't mind if they want to do that, but you already spent all weekend with them. They wouldn't stop pestering me until I called and ask you, though. If you don't want to do it I completely understand."
I can feel my heart start to race, so I take a deep breath before answering. "Oh, um I really don't mind. I don't have any plans this evening and I'm done with work for the day."
"You're really sure? I already feel like we've been asking too much of you lately..." Laura replies.
"Heh, honestly it sounds like fun. My job is all about processing petty complaints, and sometimes all the negativity gets to me. Your girls are really good at helping me remember that not all people are like that..."
I swallow, then continue: "S-Sorry, that was probably more personal than I should have shared..."
Laura laughs. "Oh no, believe me Rei, I know exactly what you mean. And I'm so happy my daughters are having a positive effect on your life, since you certainly are having one on theirs! We'll be done eating dinner by 7pm. You can come over anytime you'd like after that. Don't feel like you need to rush on over! It's important to set aside a little time each day for yourself!"
I thank her and say goodbye. Hanging up the phone, I slump back onto then couch. I know what those three are going to want to do tonight... but it'll be much more risky with their parents home.
I lay on the couch and contemplate how to best handle the situation for half an hour, before deciding that I need to get out of the house for a bit to clear my head. With that thought, I have a great idea. I grab my wallet and hop out the front door, getting into my very worn and beat up car (if you can even call it a car). I have some shopping to do for tonight...
When I got home...