Page 15 of Love Unforgettable
I answer, “Hi, Momma.”
“Cole, sweetheart, you didn’t call to let me know you got there okay.”
I wince. “I’m sorry, Momma. I haven’t been here long. But I didn’t intend for you to worry.”
“I know you’re a big boy, takin’ care of yourself and all, but a momma never stops worryin’ ‘bout her babies.”
“I know. I’m real sorry for forgettin’.”
“Well, how is it? Is it like you remembered? Do you like it? We miss you already.”
“I miss you all too, Momma. It’s real pretty here. Smells good, nice little town, different than what I remember but not in a bad way or anything.”
“How’s Babs?”
“I haven’t seen her yet, she’s at her bridge club. I reckon I’ll see her later today or tomorrow.”
“Well, you give her our love, will you?”
“Yes, ma’am, I will.”
“I still don’t know why she chooses to live all the way out there when she could just come home to family. Where we can love her and take care of her. Stubborn woman.”
“Well, maybe while I’m here I’ll find that out,” I smile.
“Okay, well, you take care of yourself out there and don’t forget to call your momma.”
“I will take care of myself and I won’t forget to call. Love you, Momma.”
“Love you too, baby.”
I feel a small pang of longing when I disconnect the call. It’s not so much that I’m homesick, or even that I know I’m going to miss my family, so much as that it’s easier to not feel alone when you’re surrounded by people who love you. I want a family with kids, and a dog or two. And I want it yesterday.
But, hell, more than anything, I just want to feel my lightning bolt.
