By Rachel Geman
She pulled the comforter over her head in the tentative way only an adult with an unstable childhood would. It was a fail. Her feet stuck out. She imagined them showcased, lonely, hugely adult. Uneven toenails, clipped absently to Netflix.
Plus the sheet bunched in the middle.
She learned he didn’t bother with a top sheet at home. Something about his and his wife’s commitment to the environment or minimalism.
She also learned that if he were not married, it was impossible to say if he would be with her. What-ifs were a kid’s game, and he was a grown man.
The pain is evident in this poignant piece. I like the subtle way the comforter and lack of sheet is used to reveal tidbits about the characters. Beautifully written.
Thank you so much. This means a lot.
This is spare, elegant prose, full of depth. There’s so much said in those words. Love the phrase about toenails!
Thank you!
I agree with both posts above. Love that the first and last sentence contrast between adult & child.
Thank you so much. This is wonderful to read.
The crux of this story for me is that line about not knowing if he would be with her if he were not married. Something about that reverberates in me.
I know exactly what you mean – thank you so much.
I really enjoyed this, love the title!
Thank you!
I have to disagree – this is extremely judgemental. Poor her
Interesting – I love this perspective.
clipped absently to netflix….great reveal
Thank you!