A knock on the door woke Rebecca up.
She stretched out her limbs and slowly got up from the chair. A wave of dizziness hit her and she wished she hadn't taken the second sleeping pill.
The past few weeks had been difficult for Rebecca. Sleepless night's, constant headache's and for some strange reason, an awful mood. Her doctor prescribed sleeping pills, but when she returned four days later complaining that the pills weren't working, she was given stronger ones that made her constantly sluggish.
Her trip to the door came to an end and when she opened, she was surprised that it was dark out.
"Ms Rebecca, I'm Malory, assistant principal at Laura's school."
"Yes, how may I help you?"
"Do you know why I'm here?"
"Not really, is something the matter?"
Malory starred at Rebecca in shock. Not only did she look like she hadn't changed her clothes in a week, but she was oblivious to what was going on. What kind of mother is this?
"You didn't come to pick Malory up from school today. We've been phoning you since 3 pm."
It slowly dawned on Rebecca. She couldn't have slept for that long.
"Where is my baby?"
"She is over at your friends Toni's house, your emergency contact."
Rebecca's feet led her back to the den, she grabbed her car keys and rushed past Malory towards her car. The key was in the ignition even before she closed the door.
Malory stood there and watched as the tail lights disappeared. She turned around and closed Rebecca's front door that was left ajar. Reaching into her bag, she took out a green note book and pen and scribbled something on it.
Rebecca was at Toni's door in less than ten minutes. Her heart beat against her chest. She realized she was hyperventilating. Laura can't see me like this. Taking a few deep breathes, she composed herself before opening the door.
The smell of Mac n cheese greeted her nose. Bless you Toni.
She saw Laura almost immediately. Her beautiful girl was placing dishes in the dishwasher. She placed each plate in the washer carefully, as though it was fine china and taking time to arrange each of them in their place. Toni walked in and kissed her on the cheek.
"Good job Laura."
The little girl beamed and flashed her statement smile.
"Mommy will be here soon."
Rebecca felt sick to her stomach. What would she tell her?
Clearing her voice, she walked into the scene. I'm here baby.
Laura ran to her mother and hugged her. Overjoyed, she held her child.They cuddled, strong emotions evident on their faces.
After putting Laura to bed, Toni and Rebecca retired to the den.
"Thank you for making mac n cheese."
"It's her favorite, I had to."
Toni held Rebecca's hand. Both women sat in silence, one in support of her friend, the other drowning in a sea of shame. The clock ticked by, a dog barked down the street, Rebecca's soft sobs quieted down and stopped.
"I'm here for you Becky, I'm here."
