Mama

Magda stood nervously next to Ares in the elevator of the hospital approaching the floor his mother was staying in, her foot turning over on its side rhythmically. She was bouncing up and down and she didn’t miss the smirk on Ares’ face. His mother was sweet and loving and, according to Ares, already loved her. It was a mantra in her head. It wasn’t making it better. She was terrified. He found it hilarious.

“Would it help to know I’ve never introduced a girlfriend to my mom before, especially one I’m trying to convince to marry me and have my babies?”

She elbowed him roughly and he gasped as her bony elbow connected with his rib cage. “Not helping.”

After he had made love to her a second time in the gazebo, he had plied her with wine, cheese and grapes and the crustiest, most delicious baguettes she had ever eaten. During the time he fed her, he began talking about how their children couldn&rsq