Page 2 of When the Fake Snow Falls

Dad:

She won’t come. Might as well just send it to her.

Although we’d love to have you!

Mom:

What do you think???

I think they’ve both lost their minds. It’s been a slow descent, but every year they get a little moremind, body, and soul,and I get a little moreI have bills to pay and don’t have time for this shit.

Candace:

You guys do know this isn’t your average cruise, right?

They know. It’s probably why they’re so excited, but I have to ask. My parents are the type to unknowingly join a cult, and I do feel some small semblance of responsibility to protect them from themselves.

Mom:

It’s better! You follow a detox program catered to you by their experts.

Dad:

It’s supposed to be very healing.

I’m about to ask if they’re sitting on the couch together, but I already know that’s the case. They’re both retired. Both enjoying their life as empty nesters with one overly independent daughter they can’t seem to match up or marry off no matter how hard they try.

As if on cue, another message comes in from my mother.

Mom:

You might even meet someone!

I roll my eyes and start walking again as I type my response. As much as I don’t want to go on this cruise, the thought of not seeing them for the holidays already has my Christmas spirit waning.Part of me is tempted to ask if they can go on the cruise any other week of the year, but if I know my parents, they wouldn’t have chosen these dates lightly. It’s probably a limited sale they don’t want to pass up, and as much as I want to spend time with them on land, I’d hate for them to miss out.

Candace:

I think it all looks great, but I already have clients booked that week. You two have fun! We’ll celebrate together in the New Year.

There’s a longer pause this time, and I know they’re discussing how to respond. They’re probably talking about how guilty they’ll feel, but also how I have my own life here in Sanford. It will be fine because they know I won’t be alone. That will make them feel better, and they’ll still go on the cruise like they should.

Mom:

Are you sure?

Candace:

Very sure.

Dad:

You won’t be sad on Christmas?

I let out a huff of laughter before typing my response.

Candace:

Not even a little.

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