Mum's Food

I couldn't wait to get back home from school.

Well, no special reason, I just wanted to get back to the comforts of my home. I got on my bicycle and sped away. I pushed open the gate to my house and was surprised to see Mum's car parked in the front of the house.

She's a lawyer working in another state and drops by only during the weekends. Never, on other days has she ever dropped by. At least, I don't remember that happening. She does call me every day just after I get finished with my classes. Nevertheless, I was extremely happy and ran inside to see Mum. I screamed, "Mooooom, you are here!".

I got no reply from her.

I called out to her a few more times but she wasn't anywhere to be seen. I then went into the kitchen and saw her preparing food. I ran and hugged her from behind and asked, "Mum! Didn't you hear me?". She was startled by my actions which I thought was strange as my entry was anything but inconspicuous.

Then she turned to look at me. She looked very pale and expressionless. She gave me a little smile and motioned for me to sit at the table. As I moved to sit on the chair, I jokingly said, "You Impostor! Where's my strict and bubbly mum?". She gave out a small laugh, a very feeble one.

Honestly, all of this was scaring me. Mum isn't at all like this. She usually pulls me into a giant bear hug whenever she sees me and would tell me a hundred times how much she missed me and would keep on talking. And she had a pretty strict rule. I am not supposed to sit at the table without freshening up, that is after school. Now, she didn't seem to mind.

Then she talked, for the first time this day, "I am really tired, honey, if you're wondering what's up with me".  I was so relieved to hear her talking. She then handed me a bowl and poured some chicken soup into it and some garlic bread. It smelled great and it was so good! I finished it up within a few minutes.

I thanked mum and went into my room and took out my phone. 

Mom: Voice message 0:18

            Sent few minutes ago

I was confused. And then I pressed play.

"Honey, I'm really sorry I didn't call you. Was caught up with work. I will call you as soon as I finish work ok? Remember to lock all doors and take Max out on a walk. Be back before it gets dark. Mommy loves you, baby, bye!"

My face turned pale at the message and that's when I realized I haven't seen Max, my puppy, since I got back.