“Yes?” I asked, failing to keep the irritation out of my voice.
“Leonardo.” My mother’s voice was clipped.
I took a deep breath and held it for a second, trying to orientate myself. It took courage and energy to talk to her. Preparation. I was out on all three counts.
“I’m at work, I can’t talk right now,” I said.
“I won’t be long. Your father would like you to come to dinner tonight.”
I rolled my eyes. “No, thank you. I’m not interested.”
She was quiet for a beat. I heard the reproach in her silence. I wanted to hang up. I wanted to get away from her. It’s hard to get away from the people you hate the most when you’re related to them.
“You can’t avoid us forever.”
I shrugged even though she couldn’t see me. I could sure as s**t try. I didn’t want to see my family. Being there just
