By Cameron Wooley
We came straight to Mom’s house to take inventory after her service. She’d be proud—no procrastinating, for once.
The scent of caraway and garlic was baked into the kitchen walls along with her memory.
“If the popcorn ceiling’s older than 1980, it’s probably asbestos,” said Caroline.
“Makes sense,” I said. “Mom always thrived on toxic bullshit.”
“Christ, Emily.” Caroline frowned.
“Let’s get her bedroom over with. I want everything gone.”
Caroline pushed open the door.
My breath hitched. There was Mom, standing at her vanity—practical and angry.
“God, Em, you look just like her…”
I blinked.
Only my reflection.
Surprise ending and nicely written.
Whoa! That ending was unexpected but remarkably true in many cases. Your MCs voice gave this story a glimpse of her mother as well. Well done!
I agree with the previous comment. The story gives some nice little hints into the mother’s character. Great story 🙂
Wonderful how you’ve brought the characters to life through their dialogue. Felt like I was in the scene.
Great way to show ambivalent feelings. I liked the ending.
So much said in so few words, wow. Loved it.
So wonderful. Don’t we all turn into our mothers?