The Beta's Blind Date
I sit on the low wall around the beds and pull out my container of cookies, biting into one and chewing on it as I stare at the corner of the garden that used to be hers.
My mom’s.
My throat tightens, and I imagine her crouched in the dirt, hair a mess and clothes filthy, gloved hands covered with dirt that smears over her forehead as she wipes sweat from her brow.
“Hey Mom,” I say. “I’m sorry I haven’t been out here in a while. I’ve been really busy.”
I set the container next to me, lid off for easy access of the remaining chocolate chip cookies — her favorite. I rub my palms on my jeans and lick my lips, preparing myself to verbalize my truth.