Short Fiction: Visiting Mum

“New earrings? I don’t know why you keep buying those—it’s not like she’ll wear them.”

“That’s not the point.”

“At least get second hand ones. She’s not going to notice the difference, and you’d save yourself some money.”

“Will you lay off? She put new earrings on the list, so I’m giving her new earrings.”

“Yes, I’ve seen the list: new earrings, a family photograph, eleven white lilies—why eleven?”

“You know why—I tell you every time we visit.”

“Yeah, well, I just don’t see why she makes you do this every time.”

“It’s the least I can do. She is my mother.”

“Controlling is what she is.”

“Why do you have to make this so difficult?”

“I’m just saying. She still has you under her thumb.”

“You’re such a jerk.”

“Why? Because I don’t like driving halfway across the country to bring your mother presents?”

“It’s once a year. And if you don’t like driving here then stop being such a cheapskate and buy plane tickets.”

“How can we afford plane tickets when you keep buying new earrings?”

“God, you’re so annoying. Are you laughing? Argh! I should have left you back at the hotel.”

“I said that earlier and you got angry.”

“Well go on then, leave! You’re going to ruin this—again.”

“No, we’re almost there. Besides, your mum will be disappointed if I’m not there—you know how she just loves me.”

“She’s always been good to you. Yes she has!”

“Well, here we are. Have you got all your offerings for the goddess?”

“That’s it! Go back to the hotel and watch your football game.”

“Oh, come on. Don’t be like that.”

“I’m serious. I can’t be around you right now.”

“Well, okay. If that’s what you want… Do you want the lilies?”

“Just leave them by her grave. I’ll fix them up.”

“All right… there. I’ll see you later then? Oh, you’re not talking to me now?”

“Will you please just leave?”

“All right, all right. I’m going. Jeez, you get so emotional.”