Quarantined: Book 1 of The Quarantine Series Page 3

  Considering the drastic change of role in my childhood, it didn't leave a lot of time to travel. Hence, I haven't gone to Boston since I was eight, and that was the last time I saw Raven. I wonder if she still has that sweet tooth of hers. She used to steal candy and sweets from the kitchen and hide it all over her room. I am sure she has changed. After all, she was only four when I saw her last.

  I did, however, frequently see Uncle John, whenever he visited New York.

  Uncle John is my hero. He is my biggest cheerleader and he just gets me. I can talk to him about everything. He doesn't judge people for their shortcomings and never passes out unkind opinions. Being a man of faith, he always tells me that he has his own demons too. And hopes that if he ever falls, someone would be kind enough to help him without judgment.

  Even in his professional life, he is an all-around hero. He worked for Doctors Without Borders for years before he got married. He is a gem of a human being and is big on giving back to the community.

  While he did reserve any judgments about my mom, he understood the toll all of this took on me. During the last few summer vacations, he invited Reid and Mia to stay with them in Boston, giving me a much-needed break to be a typical teenager. Mia loves Raven and Uncle John, so she didn't throw a tantrum being away from me. I was finally able to have friends over, go to parties, have sex; all the normal teenage shit.

  In the last eight years, Uncle John has been my constant salvation. And now I have to be his. His wife, Theressa, recently left him and his thirteen-year-old daughter. Uncle John is heartbroken.

  When Uncle John married Theressa Beckett, she was a runway model and an aspiring fashion designer. Uncle John fell hard. He became obsessed with her and wanted to marry her. She didn't feel quite the same. But her fashion designing career never took off, and she was getting too old to be a model. At that point, she was just a glorified party girl and socialite. The prospect of settling down with a rich, semi-handsome doctor was not so horrendous.

  She was still on the fence about marrying him, till she got pregnant with Raven. Our parents will never admit to this story, but I have heard it from enough family friends, to know it's true. Theressa only agreed to marry Uncle John because she was pregnant. Uncle John never wanted kids. But if it meant that he'd get to marry the woman of his dreams, he didn't mind.

  So Theressa put her ambitions on hold and pursued a role as a mother and wife instead. She was content for a while. They both were. She still did sketches as a hobby on the side and kept in touch with her contacts in the fashion world.

  Things changed drastically in their quiet lives when one of her designs caught the eye of another successful designer. Theressa was offered a job, which entailed living in Europe, between the cities of Milan and Paris.

  When it came down to choosing between her dream job and her marriage, she chose the job. Of course, it was not feasible to take a thirteen-year-old with her when her job required consistent travel and an inconsistent schedule.

  So she left them both behind.

  Uncle John begged her, even went to Europe to win her back, but Theressa was determined. She knew that life as a wife and mother was not for her. He has been a mess ever since.

  My father suggested that they move to New York City, so they could be closer to us. At a time like that, you need your family. But I suspect the real reason is that Uncle John is a terrible father. Although he is a role model to me, he is better as the fun uncle, not so much as a father. He never wanted children and now has no idea what to do with Raven.

  Dad thought we could all keep an eye out for each other, and also make sure that Uncle John doesn't go off the deep end. It made sense.

  The move was surprisingly easy. Uncle John already had a license to practice in New York, and dad was able to hook him up with an interview at his hospital. There was also a brownstone up for rent, just a couple houses down from us. Within a few weeks, they were able to shift down here.

  Hence, here we stand. In front of their new brownstone, ready to welcome them with open arms and open hearts. I plan to remember what Uncle John taught me. Help those in pain, without judgment. And show the kindness that we hope to get back someday. Uncle John showed me so much kindness over the years, and I am ready to repay it, however I can.

  My siblings spring forward as the door flies open. We all pile in, and soon there are hugs being exchanged. I grab Uncle John into a bear hug, instantly noticing the deep-set dark bags under his eyes.

  As I release him, I catch sight of jet black hair flying everywhere, the darkest shade of black I have ever seen. I have barely registered the hair when a pair of the most beautiful hazel orbs look me dead straight into my eyes, as if peeking into my very soul and pulling it out of my body. It's the most intense eye contact anyone has ever made with me. The orbs don't waver, not even once, even as I try to stare them down. What the hell! Before I can say a word, two tiny arms fling around me, pulling me into a tight hug.

  Vanilla!

  That's the first thing I register. I am engulfed in the smell of warm vanilla, maybe mixed with a hint of lavender. It's intoxicating.

  "Milo! I am Raven. I know we met when I was younger. But since one of us was still going through cognitive development, I think it's only fair that we consider this to be our first meeting. I want to officially introduce myself."

  There is no way this is Raven. She doesn't look thirteen. She looks like she is fifteen, possibly sixteen.

  I try to wrack my brain for photos I have seen of her. I have seen pictures of her and Reid, in his room. I guess he only put up photos from a long time ago because she looked a lot younger. I assure you, she did not look like this. This, I would remember. She looks like a completely grown-ass woman. She is thirteen! What are they feeding these kids at school?

  Raven pulls back from her hug, and I can't mutter out a response to her eloquent introduction. It's embarrassing. Suddenly I am nervous, very nervous, trying to come up with a witty response.

  Then I notice what she is holding. In her right hand is a half-open snickers bar. I couldn’t gather my thoughts to come up with a witty response and end up bursting out laughing. She follows my gaze to see what I am laughing at and joins my laughter, as if it's normal that we are already sharing a private joke. She is too adorable.

  Finally, I stick out my hand. "Well hello, Raven. It's nice to meet you, post cognitive development."

  She laughs again, and brushes off my hand and takes me into another big hug. I am surprised at her affection and warmth, but I hug her back. She might be too sweet and innocent for this city. It's going to chew her up and spit her back out.

  Raven links one arm around mine, and another around Mia's, like we are some old friends. She has become great friends with my siblings over the years, but she doesn't let me feel left out from their private circle.

  She leads us inside and shows us around the new house. Raven excitedly talks about their move, the new furniture, her new room, and everything under the sun.

  Uncle John stays quiet. He interjects here and there, barely responding to my attempts at a polite conversation. Finally, he excuses himself, something about catching up with work.

  My gaze follows him. I know the signs of depression a little too well. I also know, depression is not a luxury a parent can afford. Especially a single parent.

  I hope Uncle John remembers that he has someone depending on him. He has seen me suffer for years, due to one depressed parent. He has to snap out of it.

  When I focus back on the scene at hand, I find Raven setting up the game console. Mia and Reid are busy putting together a model train set, a gift Raven brought for them from Boston.

  "What are you playing?" I ask, sitting down next to Raven.

  "Mario Kart. Wanna play?"

  I grab the second controller from her, and we set up our characters. Pretty soon, she is kicking my ass. I am literally losing to a little girl. And she is smack-talking, with that smart ass mouth of hers. I would be annoyed if I wasn't laughing so hard. I can't remember the last time I laughed so hard.

  After a couple of hours, I forfeit. "Are you guys hungry?"

  All three of them grunt, too busy with a movie they just put on. I call our favorite delivery place and look for Uncle John. I haven't heard a peep from him. I search the house, but he is nowhere to be found.

  Did he leave? He didn't even say a word to us, or to his daughter. Is this a normal occurrence between them?

  I find Raven in the next room, setting the table.

  "Hi." She gives me a big smile when I enter the room.

  "Did you see your dad leave?" She hesitates and then shrugs.

  I try to remember Uncle John's words. I shouldn't judge him, and this is none of my business. But curiosity gets the better of me.

  "Do you know where he went?"

  "No. He sometimes needs to get away to clear his head."

  "And he doesn't tell you where he goes?"

  Another shake of her head.

  I am quiet. Then press again, "Does he stay out all night?"

  "Sometimes. He is going through a lot," Raven says casually.

  I am stumped. How can she be so casual about this?

  Raven is also going through a lot. She is just a little kid. And her mother left her. She is telling me that her father also regularly leaves her throughout the night. They just moved in today. How can her father leave her, in this empty house, in this new city, without even telling her? I can't understand why she is being so cavalier about this.

  Sure, I deal with my own parent drama, but at least I have the good sense to be angry at them. Raven doesn't give away anything with her expression. I don't know if this makes her angry, sad, hurt. She is blank.

  I don't voice any more concerns. This is none of my business, and I have enough on my own plate.

  Once the delivery arrives, Raven and I set up the food. Reid and Mia pile into the dining room and barely use their utensils as they devour everything in front of them. Raven laughs with me at their savagery and has the sense to eat like a normal human being.

  After dinner, we stick around for a bit longer. I am waiting and hoping that Uncle John will come back. As the night progresses, it becomes clear that he is not coming back. I tell Raven to pack a bag and come stay with us.

  "Oh no, that's okay!" Raven looks irritated at my suggestion. I don't understand this girl.

  Mia chimes in, "Please Rave, please come home with us. Let's have a slumber party. Pretty please."

  "Really guys, I can't. I have a tour scheduled at the school tomorrow. Plus, I have to unpack the remaining boxes."

  "Jesus Rave, just come back with us. There is no one here." Reid echoes my sentiments.

  Raven doesn't make eye contact with any of us. "You guys are making a big deal for nothing. Dad probably got called into work for an emergency. I am sure he will be back any second. I am fine."

  Then it hits me. Pride. We caught her at a vulnerable moment, one that's embarrassing for her. She is alone, but will not let us save her. We have to word it differently, so it doesn't sound like she is a stray cat we are taking home.

  I sigh. I hope Mia is not this complicated to handle when she is older.

  “Okay, Raven, no worries," I say nonchalantly. "I know you have a lot to do. If you can't stay the night, then at least come by for a piece of cake. We have a whole chocolate fudge cake. I was going to bribe these two with a slice, in exchange for cleaning their rooms." I hope she takes the bait.

  Raven smiles at me, with another unreadable expression. I don't know if she is excited about the cake, or if she realizes I am putting on a ruse to let her save face. Or maybe she is relieved about not being alone.

  "Nom nom nom. Cake! I can't say no to that. Let's go."

  I smirk, as the three of them head out the door. I close the door shut behind me, and can't help the feeling of disappointment. Uncle John, my savior, is no more the hero of this story than my mother.

  CHAPTER 2

  June 2nd, 2012

  -----------

  Milo

  “Go upstairs!” I use my stern voice, hoping it reflects my serious tone.

  I seldom go out on the weekends. Dad’s hospital shifts are seven on and five off. Which means, he works seven days in a row for twelve hours a day. Then he gets five days off. During his days off, he will often moonlight and pick up extra shifts.

  Hence, I rarely ever leave the house at night to go to a party. Dad feels bad for me that I regularly miss all social activities; friends’ birthdays, homecomings, Friday night hangs, or even just going to a movie. I don’t want to be an antisocial loner creep. But I can’t leave my siblings alone at home. I used to try to have the nanny stay over on the weekends, but Mia’s tantrums put a stop to that.

  So Dad lets me use the split level downstairs to throw house parties. As long as I am responsible, he has never given me a hard time about them. Not like I’d be anything but responsible, especially with my siblings sleeping two floors up.

  These parties have gained quite a reputation, attracting even college students. The split level downstairs is soundproof. It’s large and has a cool retro vibe. Plus, I have a never-ending supply of liquor.

  We have a housekeeper, Maria, who comes by once a week. Dad gives Maria a stipend for weekly grocery shopping. One of the requirements is to ensure the liquor cabinets are full. The upstairs liquor cabinet has a lock, so Maria stocks it with the expensive stuff. The downstairs bar gets the cheap shit. But it’s free, so no one really cares.

  Couple that with some absentee parents, and this house is a party sanctuary.

  Nonetheless, I always schedule the parties to take place after Mia’s bedtime and put two strict rules in place. Don’t go upstairs and follow all my rules regarding my family, which includes not allowing my siblings to attend these parties.

  Which is why I am annoyed that Reid is standing here, demanding entry. I made sure to tuck Mia in before everyone came over. When I last checked on Reid, he was also getting ready for bed.

  I just wanted to throw back a few drinks and relax with people my own age. I am not going to expose my little brother to that. I am aware that kids in New York start drinking young. Hell! I started drinking at his age.

  But guess what? Parents are hypocrites. Parents do not want you to make their mistakes. And I am basically a parent for Reid and Mia.

  Plus, when I was his age, I never put myself in unnecessary risky situations because my siblings relied on me. I drank, I had sex, but safety was always my number one concern. I was never out of control and did everything in moderation.

  I don’t see the same maturity in Reid. I often see it in Raven. I trust her. I trust her more than the adults in our lives. She thinks past herself. She reflects on how her behavior will affect her loved ones and acts accordingly. Reid has not quite developed that same state of mind.

  Maybe he will, in a couple of years. And when he does, I rather that he drinks under my supervision. I won’t deny him entrance to these parties forever. But I will deny it tonight.

  “The answer is hell no,” I snarl. “ Go upstairs.”

  “You are such a fucking hypocrite.”

  “Reid, what the hell is the matter with you? You are too young for this shit.”

  “You were my age when you started drinking. You are living it up here and keeping us locked upstairs. You leave us with her while you screw around. Fuck you, Milo! Go choke on a dick.” Reid stomps upstairs.

  His comments hit home. I feel like a piece of shit. I am fucking up with him. I can feel it.

  Having lost all my energy to entertain, I walk outside to get some fresh air. Suddenly, I feel my chest squeezing tight. I try to take deep breaths. How can a stupid fight between brothers cut me so deep?

  I used to think dad was leaving me with her, every time he walked out of the house. Now I understand how hard he works to provide for us, send us to private school, secure us a future. After all, money doesn’t grow on trees. I hope Reid comes to the same conclusion about me.

  Dad is doing the best he can. And I am doing the best I can. Parents are not perfect, and being a parent doesn’t absolve you of your flaws.

  Reaching the sidewalk, I spot a mass of long jet black hair. Raven!

  She is sitting on the steps outside of her brownstone. I immediately feel calm, and my chest is not so hollow anymore.

  I have gotten to know Raven really well over the past year. She has become a part of our family. She is young but shockingly mature for her age. At this point, I consider her a really good friend of mine. She is poised, classy, and well put together. She is the kind of person who has a calming effect on everyone. I have even seen her have that effect on my mom. Not to mention, she is incredibly beautiful.

  I constantly have to remind myself not to even think shit like that. I am seventeen, just a few months shy of eighteen, and about to start college. She is fourteen about to enter her freshman year in High School. Plus, she is Reid’s best friend. So I force myself not to look too deeply into her physical beauty.

  Which is fine, because the best part about her is actually her words. She has a way with words, always articulate yet humorous. Exactly what I need right now.