Page 36 of Tormenting Me

“Yep, we’re outside waitin’ on ya.”

“See you in a few.” I hang up and search for our suitcase as the baggage piles in. Layne points to our bag, and I quickly snatch it off the belt. As we head toward the pickup area, my Ma’s fiery red hair catches my eye as soon as we exit the building. I whistle sharply, and their heads turn towards the sound as they head in our direction. I gently take hold of Layne’s hand, pressing my lips against her skin in a tender kiss. “Get ready baby, they love to give hugs.”

My parents’ approach and the excitement is palpable. My parents embrace us tightly, showering us with affectionate hugs. My Ma gives us both pecks on the cheek and Layne smiles warmly, clearly feeling welcomed. Laughter fills the air as we walk towards the car, my Da already cracking jokes.

“How’s about this one, Why did the investigators carry a pencil to the crime scene?”

“Dunno Da, why?” I answer, looking at Layne for reprieve as she slides into the backseat.

“They wanted to draw their own conclusions.” Da cracks up, smacking me on the back. Layne cracks up in the back seat and I give her an exasperated look.

The drive through the familiar streets of Richmond drags on and I can’t help but feel a little sad. Siobhan should be here. Every holiday without her never gets easier. Layne rests her head on my shoulder, her fingers entwined with mine. I lean over and whisper, “I love you, Ma Petite Mort. I’m so happy you’re here with me.”

“Me too, baby.”

We arrive at my parents’ home, and the familiar scent of my Ma’s home-cooked meals greets us. The moment we step inside, the house welcomes us with a comforting warmth, and Ronan’s excited paws echo through the hallways. Ma turns to Layne as Ronan leaps up to lick her face.

“Just give him a push if he bothers ya. He’s a big teddy bear.” Layne laughs as Ronan licks her.

The evening unfolds with stories, laughter, and shared memories. Layne fits seamlessly into our family, her presence bringing fresh energy and happiness. As the night draws to a close, my parents show us the guest room where we will stay for the duration of our visit.

After turning in for the night, we settle into bed. Layne snuggles close to me, her head on my chest. Her slow, calm breathing creates a soothing melody that lulls me into a peaceful sleep. This is exactly what we needed.

The Day before Thanksgiving

Ronan’s never-ending barking outside shatters the silence, stirring me from my sleep. With Layne not curled into my chest, I stretch my arm towards her side of the bed, only to find it empty and chillingly cold. Like she hasn’t been here for hours. Startled, I sit up in bed and check the time on the clock beside me. I look over at the clock, and it’s already fucking nine – I never sleep in.

I notice Layne has left the door to the room cracked open, prompting me to slip on my sweatshirt and make my way to the kitchen. Layne’s laughter has me smiling as I turn the corner from the hallway to the open kitchen and dining room. Layne and my Ma are in the kitchen, huddled over a skillet on the stove. I lean against the wall and watch my wife learn how to make traditional tattie scones.

“Ya can make fresh mashed tatoes, but honestly, leftovers work best,” Ma tells her.

“You guys have leftover potatoes? Between Wes and I, there are never any leftovers. I guess that’s what happens when a Scot and an Irish person end up marrying each other.” Layne laughs a genuine, happy laugh.

Fuck…I love seeing her this happy. If I could, I would keep her here in this moment just so she can never feel any of the shit that I know plagues her thoughts daily. I would do anything to take all of that away.

I clear my throat and walk into the kitchen. “Ma, a bheil thu a’ teagasg dha mo bhean na biadhan as fheàrr leam a dhèanamh gus an reamhraicheas i mi? (Ma, are you teaching my wife to make my favorite foods so she can fatten me up?)“ I’ve never spoke my native tongue in front of Layne, but the look on Layne’s face tells me I may just have to start speaking it more.

“All I could understand of that was “My wife”,” Layne says, “What’s the rest?”

I grab a mug from the shelf, pour myself a cup of tea from the pot, and take a seat at the table. Layne walks over and leans in for a kiss. “I asked my Ma if she was teaching you how to make all my favorite foods so you can fatten me up.” Adding milk and sugar to my tea, I stir it and take a sip.

“I’ll help you exercise it off.” She whispers, sauntering back into the kitchen, and looking back at me over her shoulder. I chuckle at Layne’s playful response and watch as she continues to learn from my Ma. The sight of them together warms my heart. It’s moments like these that make me grateful for the life we are building together.

I watch as Layne flips the tattie scones in the skillet and join in the conversation. “So, Ma, how did you learn to make these traditional Scottish dishes? Did Grandma teach you?” I inquire, genuinely curious about our family’s culinary traditions. So maybe one day, I can pass them on to Layne and I’s children.

Ma smiles nostalgically. “Aye, your Grandma was a wonderful cook. She passed down all her recipes to me, and now I’m passing them on to Layne. It’s important to keep our heritage alive through food, don’t ya think?”

I nod, understanding the significance of preserving our cultural roots especially as immigrants. “Absolutely, Ma. And Layne seems to be a quick learner. I know she’ll have them down in no time.” I give Layne a playful wink and continue to drink my tea.

Layne beams with pride as she successfully removes the tattie scones from the skillet. She places them on a plate and brings them over to the table, joining me. “Here you go, Buainteoir. Freshly made tattie scones to complete a full Scottish breakfast, just for you.”

I take a bite, savoring the delicious flavors. “Mmm, they’re perfect.”

She blushes and playfully nudges my shoulder. “Well, with an outstanding teacher like your Ma, how could I go wrong?”

“Ma? Where’s Da run off to?” I ask between stuffing my face full of eggs.

“He took Ronan out. That dog is a menace, I tell ya. Even in his old age. Are ya going to go with him to the shop to get everything we need for tomorrow?” Ma asks, giving me the look that says…Yes you are.

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