Cyrus
When I arrived home with groceries, the living room was empty. I had a moment of concern until I found my mom in her bedroom. She was in bed and Petal was sitting in it beside her. My mother had photo albums and she and Petal were laughing at something.
“Oh, hell no, mom. You didn’t. Not old pictures.”
She grinned up at me. “Of course, I did.”
Petal smiled, but it wasn’t that radiant one. “You were a cute kid, Cyrus.”
Feeling embarrassed that she was seeing photographic proof of crazy hairdos and clothing choices, I said, “I picked up some food. I’m going to put it away.” I left them to it.
My mom said it was rude of me to leave Petal alone with her, but when I woke that morning, I found I couldn’t be around her all day. Not without simultaneously wanting to be angry at her for her deception and wanting to hold her. My emotions were having a tug-of-war.
“She’s here to see you mom,” I said, even though I knew a part of what she said was right. It was rude to leave Petal with my mother. Fortunately, I knew my mom would be good to her. Probably better than I was.
As I put the groceries away, my phone rang. Taking it from my pocket, I saw it was Lora. Another person I didn’t want to be around at the moment.
“Hey Lora,” I said when I picked up.
“Hi Cy. How’s the visit?”
“It’s going great. What do you need?” I was probably being too terse, but I was tired feeling pulled apart by all the women in my life.
“Your mom said Petal would be leaving tonight. I was wondering if you wanted me to come by when you take her to the airport.”
I ran my hand through my hair. My mom insisted she’d be fine alone for a short time, which was why I hadn’t called Lora about sitting with her when I picked Petal up. The last thing I’d wanted was the two of them meeting. Of course, she came anyway, so now that was a moot point.
“Yeah, sure. We’ll leave here about four.”
“Okay. Are you sure you’re okay?” she asked.
“I’m fine, Lora.” I heard a noise and looked to see Petal entering the kitchen, carrying a tray with a couple of mugs and plates.
She winced and mouthed. “Sorry.” She stepped back out of the room.
“I’ve gotta go,” I said to Lora and hung up. “Petal.”
Her head peeked around the corner. “I didn’t mean to interrupt.” She stepped into the room and brought the tray.
“You didn’t. What’s that?”
“Your mom and I had a tea party. She’s resting now.” She set the tray by the sink and started to do the dishes. “Is everything okay with Lora?”
Lora and Petal sure had an odd interest in each other. I knew that woman could get jealous over a man, but both Lora and Petal had lied to me, so why they cared if I saw one or the other, I didn’t know.
“Everything is fine.”
“Good. I was worried that I messed things up for you.”
“It takes two to tango, right?” I said. “I need you to stop second-guessing me and my life.”
She flinched. “I understand.”
I leaned against the counter, crossing my arms over my chest in case I had the urge to grab her and kiss her, like now. She looked so soft and warm. I desperately wanted to see the radiant smile.
She took a breath, her hands gripping the edge of the sink like she needed strength. “I’m sorry about that Cyrus. I know I hurt you and that wasn’t my intention.”
“What was your intention? Really?”