Her Dissolving Mind Won’t Apologize

She will never hear “I’m sorry” (and she’s panicking).

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash

Diana went to her mother’s house for lunch. Her mother made arroz con pollo and put some in a glass container to go.

“I like these containers. Not the plastic ones. So be sure to bring it back,” her mom said.

That part was fine. Diana noticed that her mother always used the same burner, always mixed the oil into the pan with one swift motion. That comforted her, and reminded her of her childhood.

“I saw your sister,” Diana offered.

“She talks too much. She’s always gossiping. Who wants to hear that? So, what did she say?”

“Oh. If you don’t want to hear gossip, I won’t tell you.”

“No, no. You might as well.” Her mother sat down with the two plates and put her chin on her fist. “What is it this time?”

“Her son has been cashing her disability checks, and apparently keeping the money. Spending it on who-knows-what.”

“That’s terrible. Which son?”

“Beto.”

“Beto was always a problem. Did I ever tell you about how he used to pick on the neighbor’s cat? Always pulling its tail.”