How could I forget? You’re a freeloader for life, little brother. Good thing your mom likes taking care of your lazy ass. I feel sorry for whatever woman you eventually meet.
CJ:
I’m inviting Aurelio.
Me:
No.
CJ:
Yes.
Me:
Have you forgotten what happened last time he was here?
Elias:
What happened?
CJ:
Jazzy’s little boyfriend kicked his ass.
Elias:
For real?
Me:
It wasn’t good.
Elias:
Wish I could have seen that.
CJ:
I’ll make sure he’s still here when Jake comes by tonight.
Me:
No, you won’t. I’ll tell Antonia that you’ve been hiding a girl in your room. Who is she anyway?
I can see that CJ read the message, but he doesn’t respond. I have a feeling I know who he’s sneaking in and out under the cover of darkness. I’m just not a little rat and I’m not about to open that can of worms.
I have the card table set up in the games room. When Antonia heard I was hosting this little poker match, she went andmade platters of food. She shows her love by feeding. I’m not complaining.
I’m sitting around the table, looking at my cousins and my brother. I don’t win every hand, but I do win a lot. I was a quick study when my father first taught me to play. I loved it.
“Why do I do this to myself?” Elias grumbles. “Fold.” He throws his hand onto the table.
My lips tilt up at the sides. Alfie is the last holdout.
“Want to make it more interesting?” I ask him.
“How so?”