by JE Hunter
Two hours later, I arrived home swinging my new purchase: a navy zip-up hoodie with a small olive green flower embroidered over the bottom right pocket. Marnie had helped me find it after I’d complained about not having any clothing to match my new red hair. The hoodie was far from being my favourite piece of clothing, but it did make me feel a tiny bit better about my transformation.
“Good, you're home.” Grandma stood up from the couch when I stepped into the front hallway. She smoothed the long, green dress she wore and walked over to me. “Take a seat in the living room while I get your mother. She has something she needs to tell you.”
I tried to escape quickly to my bedroom but Grandma stepped in front of me, blocking my path. “But I–”
“It can't wait.” Grandma held up her hand, preventing more words from escaping my lips. “It won't take long and it needs to be done now.” She pierced my eyes with hers; I shrivelled backward. “And I think you've given your mom a hard enough time for one day.” She pointedly looked at my hair.
I took my shopping bag into the living room and dropped it at my feet. I scuttled back onto the couch, picking up the television remote. I didn't even get the chance to turn it on before Grandma returned with Mom in tow.
Mom peeped up at me once, quickly, then fixed her eyes on the window. “Hey Sweetie, I'm glad you're home. We need to talk.”
I tried not to panic; conversations that started with 'Sweetie' had never brought good news. I didn't say anything. Keeping my mouth firmly shut, I watched Mom pace across the pale, rose-coloured carpet, wringing her boney hands. She stopped, set her feet firmly on the floor, and exhaled.
“Nessa, I'm sorry.” She held her hands out in front of her, already apologizing for what she was about to say.
This wasn't good.
“Since your father’s death, I’ve been thinking a lot. I’m going to sell the house.”