Page 3 of Stuck With You
“Well, maybe join a gym or something. I bet they have one that has childcare.”
“Right. Like I can afford that.”
“Yeah.” She breathes out a mix of frustration and disappointment, which tugs on my gut that wants to ignore those same constant feelings.
“Did that ancient washer quit making noises?” Thankfully, she’s moving on.
“Yes. Good thing because I’m out of underwear.”
“Pfft. Just go without. It’s the thing these days.” I will not ask how she knows that. “Oh, did you get the box I sent you? There’s a cute Kate Spade bag in there. I snagged it right before Cynthia got her grubby mitts on it. It’s perfectly professional and in amazing condition.”
I drop my lunch into the large, beautiful bag. “Yes. It’s great. Thank you.” I won’t tell her I’ve considered selling it for the cash, but it’s too perfect.
“It came in last week, along with the most exquisite gown. It made me think of . . .” I tune out the reminiscing, not having the energy for dreams long past, and am saved by the front door opening and closing.
“Mom, I gotta go. Helen is here.”
“Ok, honey. Have a good day. Love you!”
“Love you, too.” I step into the living room. “Good morning.”
“I’m sorry I’m running late. I got stuck behind the train.” Helen shivers. “It’s turning into winter out there. All the leaves are frosted over.”
The front yard is blanketed with gold leaves covered in a dusting of white frost. I make a mental note to see if there’s a rake in the garage.
I snatch Frankie from the floor, and Helen places a worn hand on her back, smiling at Ollie. This woman is a straight-up blessing and the only reason this move was possible.
Two years ago, when my paternal grandmother died, I learned she’d left me this house. I’d considered selling, but after my life imploded, this place offered us a home and, by some miracle, a job opportunity I would’ve been an idiot to refuse. The best part: no one told me it also came with a Helen.
Helen had been friends with my grandma for years. They attended the same church, and she visited each week, checking on her more frequently as she weakened. Then, she watched over the empty house,and we connected after ownership was transferred to me. When she learned I was considering moving and had a job interview, she insisted on caring for my babies during the day.
But she doesn’t just take care of them. She loves on them, and if I can’t be here to do that myself, there isn’t anyone better for the job.
“Looks like things are coming along.” She surveys the room and the few remaining boxes tucked in the corner.
“I’m getting there. There’s another load in the garage to donate. I only have a few more closets to go through and the basement.”
“Stella liked to hold onto things, but she’d be so happy to know life is being lived inside these walls again.”
From what Helen has told me, my grandma lived here for thirty years, and I’m fairly certain this small brick bungalow contains items she had when she moved in. I’ve been slowly sorting through cupboards, closets, and dressers. It’s strange to sift through a lifetime of belongings of a woman I never knew. I won’t complain. I love this cute little house and am beyond grateful for the chance at a fresh start.
I kiss Frankie’s squishy cheek and hand her over. “They haven’t had breakfast yet, and I had to wash Frankie’s sheets. Could you put them in the dryer?”
“Sure thing, dear. I’ll see if I can make a dent in the basement during naptime.”
I lean down, blocking the TV screen, and hold Ollie’s face. “Be good today, ok? I bet Miss Helen will read your new library books if you ask. They’re in your backpack on the hook.” My five-year-old’s current obsession is birds. He blinks his big blue eyes, then gives me a soft smile. I kiss his sweet face.
Helen follows me into the kitchen, and I carefully slip my foot into my heel, trying not to wince. It’ll be a long day for my swollen pinky toe.
“I removed the car seats. They’re in the garage if you need them.” I throw my bag across my body and grab my coffee. “Call me if you need anything.”
“We’ll be just fine. Have a good day.” Helen gives a little wave, and Frankie’s little fingers squeeze in and out.
I smile and wave back as guilt socks me in the stomach. If only I could be here, make money momming, and maybe change the sucky world at the same time.
I pull the back door open, and Grover lunges at me. Before I can stop him, the big dog’s paw rakes down my leg.
He prances to his water bowl as I close the door with a fresh twelve-inch run in my tights. My last pair.
