Alice bails

Mom and I instinctively looked at Alice when her demeanor changed.

"Oh my god!" she said, throwing down her fork. "I completely forgot! I have to pick up a friend from the airport!"

Before either mom or I could say anything, Alice got up from the table and headed to the front door.

"Alice!" I yelled after her, getting up.

"Honey!" Mom added chasing after her as well.

"So sorry!" My sister said, surprisingly cheerfully. "I'll be back in a couple hours. I'll make it up to you both!" She had her purse now, and put her shoes back on. "Try to get along without me!"

And with that she shut the door. "Huh." I just said. "She was my ride home."

Mom checked her watch. "Well, the airport isn't too far from here, so hopefully it won't take all night." Then she put her hand on my shoulder. "Let's go finish dinner, then." I recoiled somewhat at the touch, and mom definitely noticed. She retracted her hand, and we went back to dinner.

The occasional conversation would spring up, but then fail to stick around. It wasn't for lack of trying either, neither of us seemed to be on the same wavelength. After about fifteen more minutes, I had eaten all I could, including he cookie cake.

"Man, I'm full." I said.

"Me too." Mom replied. "How about we move to the couch to get more comfy?" Considering how dinner went, I wasn't too excited as the prospect of more enlightening conversation. I could definitely just hole up in my room until Alice returned. Then again, she does seem to be putting in an effort. Maybe I could stick around for a little bit longer?