11
“I know, Dad. I’m going to try to come back home this weekend. Uncle Max is traveling with Aunt Laura and isn’t due back until early next week.”
“Must be nice not to have a care in the world,” he said.
“Dad, that’s the problem, they don’t care. Not about anything.” Not about their employees, and definitely not about his sister. She thought for sure Aunt Laura would’ve asked how they were, or at least said to tell them hello. But not one word, as though they didn’t exist. That was so difficult for Rosslyn to comprehend. There wasn’t a birthday or holiday that went by without her mother sending Uncle Max and Aunt Laura a card. Cards that probably went in the trash. Wouldn’t shock me if they weren’t even opened.
“You might not understand it or like it, sweet pea, but their relationship works for them.”
“I’m not sure that’s what I’d call it, Dad. You should hear how they talk to each other. I wish I could tell them if they don’t have something nice to say then zip it.” She couldn’t believe people who were supposed to have such class, didn’t seem to have any when it came to each other.
“I know it’s not easy, but they are your family. Your mother would want you to treat them with respect.”
Even though she gets none. I know Dad. Mom is my hero too.She was blessed being raised by people with such high morals. Through their struggles came strength and perseverance. Rosslyn hoped some of that had rubbed off onto her. From what she was going through, she was going to need it.
But her dad was right. This wasn’t about them; it was about her. She’d heard worse from strangers and ignored it. She just needed to do the same with them. They’re practically strangers anyway. I know their names. Wow. That’s really personal.
“I won’t let Mom down. How is she doing, by the way?”
“She’s here and would like to talk to you. Do you have time?”
She didn’t care if the President or Pope was standing there, needing something. This was the moment she yearned for. Her mother knew who she was. “I’ve got all the time she needs.”
When her mother came on the phone, Rosslyn had to choke back the tears. “How is my little Rosie?”
It was the pet name only her mother called her. It seemed like ages since she’d heard it. “I’m great, Mom.” She knew better than to ask how she was doing. Actually she learned not to ask her mother any questions as it sometimes confused her. So she told her things instead. “I went out last night and I had the best homemade ice cream ever.”
“Hot fudge or caramel?”
Rosslyn giggled. “Both. It was amazing. Of course I am not sure my pants fit the same today.”
“Rosie, you know you’ve always had a sweet tooth and never gained a pound. You’re just like your father. But your father seems to be eating better now. I saw him eat wheat toast.”
“Watch out, Mom. Next will be prunes for breakfast.” She knew her father was listening so he could decipher what was true or not from the call later.
As usual her mother switched subjects. “I met the nicest man yesterday. I think he would be perfect for you.”
I thought I had met one myself. Now I’m not so sure.
Since her mother didn’t go out except to the doctors, she had no idea who she was talking about. “That’s nice.”
“I told your father we should have him over for dinner. What time do you think you’ll be home tonight?”
And there it goes.The moment was already slipping away. “Not sure. I might have to work late. You and Dad eat and we can do it another time.”
“Okay Rosie, that sounds good.”
“Mom, I have to go back to work now.” She knew it was time to say goodbye. Never an easy thing.
“What time will you be home for dinner tonight?” her mother asked again.
“Very late, Mom. I love you, but I have to go.” Before I start crying.
“I love you too, my little Rosie.”
Before the phone call ended her father came back on the line. “It’s okay, sweet pea. Your mother is going to go watch her game shows now. You get back to work and we’ll talk tomorrow.”
“Dad, are you sure you don’t want me to come home?” He always told her no, but she knew how hard this was on him as well. At least with her there, he could go out for a while. Maybe work on a boat or two. Just for his sanity alone.