Cry to Me

18.

She woke up briefly when David got up, but he covered her with the blanket and she fell back asleep for the next few hours. By the time she got ready and walked downstairs, the other four were strategizing and were in deep conversation about the plan that was formulating. Her mom was carrying in a coffee pot to refill their cups when she saw Taylor.

Mom: Good morning dear! Coffee?

Taylor: That sounds great, thanks.

Mom: I'll get you a cup after I'm done refilling!

Her mom walked into the living room and began filling the cups that were sitting on the table. Taylor hesitated outside of the room, unsure if she should walk in. As she was standing there, Charlie looked up at her. She wanted him to look away, in disgust or contempt she did not really care, but he just kept staring at her as if with a longing. Then she noticed David look up at her and she gave him a quick smile, turned, and walked towards the kitchen unable to handle the two of them. Her mom walked in and grabbed a cup out of the cupboard.

Mom: How was your sleep?

Taylor: Good. I see you've been busy this morning.

Mom: They're keeping me busy and on my feet, which is what I like. It helps keep my mind off of things. I made some breakfast, but the boys ate everything. I'll make you some more but it will be a few minutes.

Taylor: No, that's okay. I'll have cereal or something. I'm not very hungry.

Mom: You sure?

Taylor: Yes. Did you eat?

Mom: I had some toast, which was good enough for me. At my age, I have to watch how much I eat!

Taylor: Right, at your advanced age the pounds just start to pile on – how could I forget! Mom, you're so ridiculous sometimes.

Mom: You'll see what I'm talking about when you're my age, trust me!

She smiled and grabbed her cup. Taylor tried to avoid entering the living room for as long as possible, but began hearing two familiar male voices that were getting progressively louder. Her mom looked over at her with concern.

Taylor: Don't worry about it – I'll go check on them.

She walked towards the living room and saw David and Charlie scowling at each other.

Charlie: You wanna take this outside?

David: You're not worth it. The sooner you leave, the better.

Charlie: That won't change anything! You know I'm right.

David: It's not up to you or me, so back off!

Charlie: You think you can have control over her life, why can't I?

David got up to confront him and Charlie did the same. Trying to avoid further escalation, Taylor walked into the room.

Taylor: What's going on here?

No one answered.

Taylor: Well?

Charlie: I was just saying how it would be safer for you to come with the three of us to Canada, but David here doesn't seem to agree.

Taylor: I already told you I'm not leaving my mom here.

David: You two talked about this already?

Taylor: He mentioned it last night, and I already told him my answer. So there's no point in fighting about it or whatever you two are doing.