Short Story: Babysitter

I woke up in the morning to the sound of my electrical alarm clocks’ buzzes. It was 7 AM-- and in a couple of hours I’d be going to Kyle’s birthday party, which I’ve been begging my parents to go to since last week. They told me I could go if I helped my mom at home; meaning that I had to do an abundance of chores. Washing the dishes, cleaning the car, walking the dog, sweeping the floor, doing the laundry-- whatever chore you could think of, I did it, all for the sake of being able to attend his party. And in the end, they allowed me to. It was such a relief to hear them say that I could go, because Kyle’s been one of my closest friends, and it’d be such a shame if I couldn’t go.
I pulled the blanket off my body, brushed my teeth, and headed downstairs ready to eat breakfast. My parents were already there-- but something was off. They were wearing their work clothes; dad was dressed up in a clean suit and mom with a pencil skirt and white top.
“Why are you guys wearing that? I hope you know it’s the weekend today.” I asked.
Even though they tried to be discreet, I still caught the worried glances they exchanged with each other. I frowned.
“What happened?”
“Well, this morning we were both called to an emergency business meeting”, my mom started, “meaning that you can’t go to that birthday party of yours.”
The last part of the sentence was spoken quietly, but I still didn’t understand.
“What does your business meeting have to do with me not being able to go to his party?”
“Last week your aunt asked us if we could babysit Tristan since she has business to do overseas today. And we already promised her that we could”, Dad answered, “but because we have to go to this business meeting in the morning, no one will be able to babysit Tristan.”
“Unless it’s you.” Mom finished quietly.
I couldn’t believe it. I was furious and annoyed.
“So now I have to take care of some stupid toddler instead of going to a fun party? Are you guys serious?”
“Excuse me? This is part of being a responsible person Jason, and don’t talk about your relatives like that.” Mom snapped.
“I don’t care mom! It’s his birthday, and I’ve been his closest friend since forever, he’d be disappointed if I couldn’t go!” I yelled.
“Shouting won’t change our decisions Jason, there’s nothing you can do about it. I already called Kyle’s parents about the situation, and your aunt is going to be here in a few minutes to drop Tristan off. I expect you to behave in front of your aunt and to take care of Tristan.”
Our heads jerked towards the door as the sound of our doorbell resonated throughout our house. Through the window I could see a lady holding a toddler in her arms, patiently waiting for the door to open.
I fell back in my seat annoyed, and crossed my arms.
“This isn’t fair.” I grumbled under my breath.

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