“Mom, this is Phil,” I said.
“I know,” she said. “Barry’s dad.”
I reached back and grabbed his
hand, and pulled him up next to me. “Mom, I’d like you to meet my boyfriend,
Phil.”
“Oh. You’re her Phil.” She seemed
to shrink a little and she put one hand on her throat.
Phil nodded. “I’m her Phil.”
I liked the way that sounded.
Especially when Phil said it. I wished I got a few seconds to enjoy it.
My mom sank down onto the bottom
stair. She looked confused. I couldn’t tell if she felt upset, uncomfortable,
or in shock. I didn’t know what to do. I sat down beside her on the stair and
put my arm around her shoulders.
“You okay?” I asked.
“It’s an unpleasant surprise.” She
shook her head.
I pulled my arm back and leaned
away from her. So this is how it would go.