Visiting Mama - a short story written by Berni Albrighton

 

“Okay, okay, I hear you. It’s too salty. Phew, you are impossible to please.

And don't look at me like that, as if I killed your pet cat or something. What? No, no, pussycat is still alive.

I know. Yes she is doing good, her teeth aren't great, not like yours. You always had great teeth.

Have some Concha. There, that nice? 

No you haven’t got crumbs on your chin. I have? Okay, there, is that better?

What about your hands? 

Mmm, we can try with some cream, but I think we’re past the point of no return with your skin. Sorry. 

Yes I made your favourite Albondigas soup, it’s just cooling down, I don’t want you burning yourself.

I know that's why you didn't want to be cremated. 

I know Mama, how can I forget you told me a hundred times, and didn't we have you at home for 3 whole days.

We didn't poke and prod you Mama , we were just making sure you were dead that's all, just like you asked. 

Yes, here we go, open wide. Oh, sorry, that was uncalled for. 

Nice? Are you enjoying it? 

How do you know I never made it? Yes actually she did. She wanted to come today but she knows you never liked her.

Mama, that's just cruel, she can’t help it. Anyway, you stop noticing after a while.

No she hasn't got any of your clothes.

I told you, the red flowery dress wasn't in the wardrobe, I have no idea where it is.

You don’t like this one? 

You wouldn't be seen dead in it? 

Very funny Mama, you are dead.

No one's looking at you, anyway eat up, you’re looking a bit thin.

Yes I know, but the young ones didn't want to come. They said they don't see the point in  hanging around with dead people. 

Papa?  No, after what happened last year I’m not digging him up. 

You don't know what I’m talking about?

Come on Mama. You two had a right go at each other. Shouting and yelling. 

His arm broke off, you know, we couldn't do anything, it shattered.

No, he’s best left alone. 

Who? The lady over there with the red hair?

I know it's not her real hair Mama.

What about her anyway?

That's a terrible thing to say, It’s Renata, you two used to be best friends. 

Mama please. What is it you always told me, “never speak ill of the dead they’ll come back to haunt you.”

Yes, that's her daughter Frida. Well her husband left her with 3 little ones, so if she isn't looking like a bundle of laughs I’m not surprised.

You like her hair? 

You don’t like this wig? 

You’re not wearing it?
Well I’m not going back to get another one Mama. I’d have to put you back in the ground and get you back out again.

Come on, you look lovely.

Have some wine.

Salud Mama, Happy Halloween.