wedged

So this was really happening. Ellie's dad had the list for Home Depot. Ellie sat like a lump on the sofa and Kyle sat next to her as if he didn't even know she was sitting there.

Lisa came down the stairs and noticed Kyle first. Then gave Ellie an odd look. She almost laughed, but seriously said, "Dad?"

Ellie squirmed and gave her the evil eye. If she had anything to say about Kyle, it better be something nice or she'd regret it. She'd tell Dad about Lisa's little bedroom adventures with Geo.

"What's Kyle doing here?" She put a strand of hair behind her ear and smiled sweetly at Kyle who gave her a little wave.

"Says, he knows a thing or two about toilets." Her father said while reading his list.

"I flush a lot when I'm at home." He half smiled. Ellie gasped hoping he wouldn't make another joke.

"I see." Lisa rolled her eyes.

"We're going to Home Depot," Ellie said, but thinking she'd rather be anywhere than Home Depot with these two. Kyle already made plenty suggestions about the whole toilet in the box. Really, Ellie hoped she wouldn't have to help, but evidently, that was part of her punishment for ditching school.

"I think you'll have a lovely time," Lisa mocked. "Take all the time you need , Dad." She patted her Dad's back as if they had an understanding. Everything was sweet at home.

Ellie gave her a scowl, and with that, they left to be loaded up in her Dad's pickup and made their trip to Home Depot.

Ellie felt squashed between her Dad and Kyle. There had to be more room, but Kyle was pushing it with his leg next to her. He was smacking his gum, as well. She would have sworn he was being all of a fifth grader without a conscience. Why did he have to be so silly?

Ellie crossed her arms. Could it get any worse?

Dad turned on the radio to some classic rock. He started to sing. Ellie turned to Kyle who gave her a little kiss and left his gum in her mouth. Ellie almost choked. She guessed it was better than having it in her hair, but not by much.