*DausMendoza pov*
My mom's call came just as I was parking up for Washington, her Spanish tone laced with a hint of anger. "Hello, Daus,'' she said. I replied cheerfully, "Hi, Mom!" but she cut me off
"Daus, your sister's wedding is in six days, and you're not here yet?"she said
" Oh my god, like you said in six days and besides I have been quite busy"i said I knowing what was coming, so I put the phone on loudspeaker and threw the phone on the bed, bracing myself for the lecture.
"Busy, busy, you're telling me you're too busy for your sister's wedding? (I never said that) How could you say such a thing, Daus? I always told you, no matter what you're doing, you put family first. Do you want what happened when you were in the second year of high school to happen again? Daus, I expect to see you in Washington within the next 24 hours, or this house won't be big enough for both of us," she lectured before hanging up then I sighed, frustrated,
"When did I ever say I was too busy to attend... argh, whatever."
I finally arrived in Washington for the wedding of the century." "Hey," I heard a girl yell as she ran into the arms of her loved ones. I realized no one was there to pick me up, except for my Uber driver, who kindly helped me with my luggage. "Thank you," I said, appreciative of his assistance.
As I exited the car, I felt confident and stylish, rocking a sleek Brioni suit, black heels, and a chic black and white Gucci bag. My little cousin Lilly spotted me and ran over, calling out my name." Daus"
"Hey," I replied as I bent down, giving her a gentle hug to avoid messing up my outfit.
"You said you'd come to my birthday party, but you didn't show up," Lilly said, pouting.
"I am sorry, why don't I make it up to you" I apologized and offered to make it up to her by handing her a hundred-dollar bill from my bag.
"Thanks," she said joyfully and ran to show her friends.
I rolled my luggage into the living room, where I saw the bride-to-be admiring wedding photos.
"Hello, Mai familiar!" I said, bursting into the living room looking as stunning as ever. Selena stood up to give me a warm hug, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Daus, you finally came!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with relief. I smiled, returning her hug, but winced slightly as she squeezed too tight. "Honey, make it a little light, please, because of my stilettos," I said with a chuckle. She touched my hair.
"Go easy on the hair," I added,I instinctively fixed it back, maintaining my flawless style. I then greeted the rest of the family, rolling my box into the kitchen where my mom, grandma, and aunts were gathered.
"Hey, Mama!" I said, receiving a huge smile and a big hug from my mom.
"Daus, baby, I thought you weren't going to make it; I would have killed you!" she added with a playful, wicked grin. I laughed, shaking my head, and gave my grandma a hug too.
"Oh, papito, you still dress like this? Oh God," she said, shaking her head in disapproval. I rolled my eyes good-naturedly, wondering what was wrong with my impeccable suit.
*Next day*
"Ah, it's morning!" I exclaimed, getting out of bed and gazing at the beautiful sky visible through my window. I began my morning routine, heading to the bathroom to brush my teeth and take a refreshing bath. Afterward, I made my bed and gave myself a quick makeover, not wanting to look dull even if I wasn't planning on going out. I put on a pink top I got from Khy, paired with pink joggers and white flip-flops. Feeling refreshed and ready for the day.
"Hello, my family," I said, descending the stairs to join them at the breakfast table.
"Days, come eat breakfast," Mom called out, serving omelettes. I chose a seat as far from Grandma as possible to avoid her gaze. Mom then called out to Lisa, "Lisa, bring the kids!"
I hadn't realized Lisa was already around. she's my cousin.
Lisa playfully warned the kids, "Oi, last one to the table gets eaten by a spider!" They giggled and rushed to their seats. When Lisa noticed me, her expression changed to surprise.
"Oh my God, Days!" she exclaimed, hugging me. "When did you show up?"
"Yesterday," I replied. "I didn't know you were around"
"Yh, I was quite"Lisa started to explain her busy day, but Grandma interrupted, "Time to pray." Then all held hands and closed our eyes.
"Lord, we thank you for the food you have given us and ask that you provide for those in need..." Grandma prayed. We chimed in with a collective "Amen," thinking she was finished. But Grandma added.
"And for those of us who keep sinning against you knowingly, we ask that you deliver their souls." Her eyes met mine when she opened them, making me feel like her words were directed at me.