So Let Me Tell You What Happened

Chapter 22: Feuds & Bombshells

Back at home, Anthony and I lounge in my room, relishing the rare moment of privacy away from the prying eyes of parental supervision. It's our haven, where we can be ourselves without any pretense or judgment. But lurking beneath the surface tranquility is the anticipation of Mom's reaction to our newfound relationship. Brace yourselves, folks, because this could be one hell of a ride.

As Anthony and I nonchalantly watch TV, I can't help but notice his intense gaze fixed on me, his lips caught between his teeth in an alluring display. I play it cool, pretending not to notice, but his silent admiration is like a beacon in the dark, impossible to ignore. And Anthony, well, he's not one to let a moment slip by unnoticed.

"What's got you grinning like a Cheshire cat?" Anthony teases, a playful glint in his eye as he leans in closer.

"Just enjoying the show," I quip back, masking the butterflies fluttering in my stomach with a casual shrug.

Anthony's lips meet mine in a kiss that ignites a spark between us, a silent declaration of our newfound status. But our intimate moment is abruptly interrupted by the sound of the front door swinging open. Mom's home early, and the showdown is about to commence.

Descending the stairs, I mentally prepare myself for the inevitable interrogation. Mom's not one to mince words, and I have a feeling she's about to unleash her fury.

"Hey, Mom," I greet her, plastering on a smile that belies the turmoil brewing beneath the surface.

"Hey, sweetie. And Anthony?" Mom acknowledges him, her eyes narrowing in suspicion as she takes in the scene before her.

"Please, call me Shailey. What's going on here? Why are you two alone?" Mom's tone is calm, but there's a hint of concern that sets my nerves on edge.

"Actually, Mom, there's something we need to tell you," I begin, steeling myself for the storm that's about to hit.

Mom's brow furrows in anticipation, her gaze shifting between Anthony and me as she waits for an explanation.

"DENA, ARE YOU... involved in something you shouldn't be?" Mom's accusatory tone catches me off guard, and I can't help but roll my eyes at her wild imagination.

"No, Mom, nothing like that," I reassure her, relieved that we can put that absurd notion to rest.

With that misunderstanding cleared up, it's time to drop the bombshell.

"I hope you're sitting down, Mom, because Anthony and I are officially together," I announce, bracing myself for her reaction.

"Oh, really? And how long has this been going on?" Mom's voice is calm, but there's an unmistakable edge to her tone.

"Since today," I reply, holding my breath for her response.

My mom turns her attention to Anthony, her gaze piercing as she waits for his explanation.

"I... I'm sorry, Miss Shailey. I've never been in this situation before," Anthony confesses, his nerves palpable. "But I asked Dena to be my girlfriend, and she said yes. I'll do whatever it takes to make her happy and protect her."

There's a tense silence as Mom processes Anthony's words, her expression unreadable. Finally, she speaks, her voice tinged with caution and a hint of approval.

"Well, I hope you're both serious about this, because relationships aren't something to be taken lightly," Mom warns, her maternal instincts kicking into high gear.

"I assure you, Shailey, I'm fully committed to making this work," Anthony assures her, his sincerity shining through.

"Alright then. I'll trust you both to make this work, but remember, communication is key. Don't let misunderstandings fester," Mom advises, her words carrying the weight of experience.