I didn't buy it. "Really? I having a really difficult time buying that story, mom. You're the only one that benefits in any way with me like this...."
"Joanna." Zoe warned. "Think rationally. Why would I wish for you to lose three years..."
"I'm not saying you directly wished for this, but we both know how a small seemingly insignificant wish turns into something big. Like Karyn wishing away my dick resulting in you turning into my mom! I'm not stupid! If you wanted me as a child, I'd already be five. You age only slightly, yet not have the drama of dealing with a screaming, annoying baby."
"Instead, I get an annoying, sassy tween instead"
"Very funny. Just answer my question, mother" I said.
"No" Zoe said stiffly. "I've had multiple chances to use that stone. I could have left you with Linda. Ninety minutes was enough to make you look like a princess, princess. What do you think an overnight interaction would do? Probably make you her kid again, albeit an extremely girlish one. What thanks do I get?"
"Do you have any idea how horrible my day has been? All these changes" i said,. Pausing, "Still could be worse. Thanks for not betraying me by coming. Seems your relationship between aunt Linda and yourself haven't really changed."
Zoe chuckled. "Yeah.... I must admit something. I knew about the whole goth thing from my photos. I guessed what happened to you when i saw the car. Seriously, Linda didn't find anything weird about you.... Plus the other unpleasantries."
I felt nervous. "Like what?"
Zoe dodged the question. "How did you like ballet?"
"It sucked" I said, not wanting to admit that I was good at it, embarrassed that its the only sport I've ever been good at, and the fact a part of me liked that I was good at least one physical activity. "What does that have to do with it?"
"I found more leotards in the wash. You must really like it" Zoe smirked. "Plus your room is a lot more girlish."
"Oh, great" I muttered. "Any other nasty surprises?"
"I hope not" Zoe said.
"What about you? Any changes to you?" I asked.
"No" Zoe said, even more stiffly. I knew she was lying, but I decided not to push it. "There is at least one one good thing for you, Anna."
"What?" i demanded.
"New age. New friends. Sounds like your old ones were not to your taste"
I gave a slight giggle before cupping my mouth. "Good point. When we get in, I'm going assess the damage."
