Page 42 of Finding Molly Parsons

Enid was in a complete world of her own. Lost in her imagination, her eyes scanning the raunchy book feverishly.

“Carmen, please, I need a break. I know what Enid’s breathy voice sounds like. I should not know that.”

“No one should know that, Mateo.”

“Carmen,” he growled.

“Alright, keep your heels on. I’ll pull over in a few miles, although we’re literally an hour from Woodland.”

“I can sit in the back with her,” Faith said, taking out her earbuds.

“No,” Mateo and Carmen chimed together. “I’ll take a turn,” Carmen added. No way was she going to subject Faith’s innocent ears to Enid’s “breathy voice.”

Twenty-minutes later, Carmen found herself next to a smiling Enid. The way the older woman was looking at her was a little concerning.

“I’m glad you’re back here with me,” Enid said smugly. Hold on a minute. Had Enid planned this?

“Nice to be here?” Carmen replied with more of a question than a statement.

“So Ruth was nice.”

“Yeah, it seemed so.”

“Not Molly’s forever person, though.”

“Um, okay?” Where was Enid going with this?

“Molly needs someone who will nurture her need to help young people, but will make her feel safe enough to stop running.” Well, this conversation was a tad on the heavy side. Carmen almost wished Enid would start reading her smutty book out loud again. Looking toward the front of the car for support, Carmen was out of luck. Faith had her headphones back in, typing furiously on her phone, and Mateo was singing obnoxiously to a Madonna song.

“I’m sure Molly knows what or who she needs.”

“I know Molly. I watched her for a long time. I’ve watched you, too.”

“That’s creepy,” Carmen mumbled.

“Not creepy… well, maybe a little,” Enid laughed. “I just think you and Molly would be good for each other.”

“Enid, you know that’s not going to happen, right? We are taking Faith to her and then, well, I don’t know what will happen. One thing is for sure, though, I will head home with you and Mateo and get back to work.”

”If you say so, dear. Now would you like a gummy? I think that stick in your ass could do with a break.”

Carmen stared, open-mouthed. “I…”

“Okay, no to the gummy. How about I read that lesbian book you were telling Mateo about? It’s been ages since I’ve had some girl-on-girl action.”

“Enid!” Carmen squeaked.

“Oh lord, your generation thinks you invented lesbianism, I swear it. I’ve had plenty of experience with the ladies.”

“How did your husband feel about that?” Carmen’s eyes shimmered with amusement.

“Ha, he had his fair share of men, so no big deal.” Carmen’s mouth fell open. “Now, you sure you don’t want that gummy?” Enid smiled, her palm open offering Carmen a little candy.

“Mateo, we’re swapping back. Pull over!”

“Oh look, we’re in California,” Faith squealed excitedly. Mateo pulled the car over to the side of the road. Looming over their windshield was a large “Welcome to California” sign.

“Hey Carmen, did you know Cali’s state flower was a sunflower?” Mateo asked, his eyes never leaving the giant sign. Carmen shoved her head through the gap in the seats.

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