Page 57 of Chasing Fireflies

“You look as though you don’t eat enough. Does Cash not keep food in this house?”

“Don’t start.”

“All you have are junk food and frozen meat in this kitchen. You need some vegetables and fruits.”

“Mama, I said not to start.”

“I’m just saying, Sara. A person…”

I throw my plate down onto the floor, and it shatters. Glass slides across the floor.

“I said not to fucking start. I don’t want to hear your bullshit judgments. This is my house, Cash is my husband, and we take care of each other just fine. We don’t need you coming in here and trying to change things.”

Mama stands there with a hand over her mouth. I shake my head and walk over to the broom.

“Sara, you need to go see the doctor. This is getting out of hand.”

I grip the broom handle and bite my tongue. Where the hell is my husband? I’m going to kick his ass for asking her to come here.

*

Cash

“Thanks for bringing the firewood by, Cash,” Maci says.

“It’s not a problem.”

“How’s Sara feeling today? Leigh said she came by yesterday, and she wasn’t feeling great.”

“Yeah, she’s okay. Her mom is visiting.”

“Oh, well, I hope that’s going all right.” Maci makes a face. I laugh.

“Yeah, me, too. How’ve you been doing?”

“I’m okay. I take it one day at a time.”

“Heard anything from Lucas?”

“He writes.”

I wait for her to continue, but she doesn’t and I don’t want to pry.

“Okay, well, we’ll see you later then.”

“Thanks again.”

*

I stop by the Kingsley’s house to give them some firewood, but really I’m just checking to see if they are getting along. Joe walks out to meet me.

“Afternoon, deputy.”

“Joe.” I nod. “You guys get along okay during the storm?”

“Yep, saw a big tree fall in the backyard, and the lights went out for a bit, but we’re good.”

“Glad to hear it. I brought you two some firewood.”

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