Last week: Sharon, just widowed, broke the sad news to her younger son Jeff and Inge his wife so far away in Copenhagen, knowing they would catch the next flight home.
“Mamse, soon we want you to sell your home, move here where we have much room and before the children are too soon old; oh, did I say it right?”
“Dear Inge, just perfect; I pray for your safe journey as you come back to me.” She ended the connection, knew she needed a glass or two of Chardonnay before calling her difficult son in New Jersey, too close for comfort.
Liquid courage helped her punch in his number; the phone rang a few times, his nasty wife, Corrine picked up; Sharon heard shouting in the background, just what a mother loves to hear and Corrine said, “Yeah, who’s calling?”
“Sorry to call so late, Corrine but I must speak to Fred.” don’t cry, don’t cry, don’t cry-hold yourself together…”Mother, what’s wrong, Oh God, something must be very bad for you to call this late.” Sharon took a deep breath, “Your father had a heart attack and now. . . he’s gone.”
Silence on the line and then her son said, “Is my brother coming in from wherever the fuck he lives?” “Of course he is and don’t curse.” “So you called him first, huh.” “Stop it right now, I have no patience for your rivalry and Jeff has to make arrangements; I need rest before the,” her voice caught before she could say, “funeral.” Sharon heard him break down as he hung up.
Oh, there is much drama in this family. His death will either bring them together, or tear them farther apart.
Jessica, thank you week after week as you boost this author.
So very true to life!
Unfortunately, good family relationships are too rare. Thanks, Ed. You always see right through what’s happening.
Wow, what a contrast to the other son, but this is so often true, isn’t it? And a death in the family can bring out the best and the worst in people.
Yes, I’ve been there and it sucks. You nailed it, Alexis.
So hard when the family picks fights during these very sad and difficult times! Another very realistic snippet…hugs to you, my friend!
My brothers were like that and my older sons managed to be just as bad. Fortunately, my youngest son and dearest only daughter are my best pals, always taking care of each other and now me. Thanks, best friend.
I’ve been MIA and wow, the sense of drama in this family!
Thanks, Siren. Be well.
Drama, drama, drama! Great scene.
Thanks, friend Karen. I always love your comments.
Yes this certainly is a very dramatic snippet – you put so much emotion into each sentence, Charmaine, and the contrast between the two sons and their wives is, sadly, so very much like real life.
Sharon has a long road ahead before she learns to Survive and Thrive. Thanks, Hywela.
Siblings can be so bad toward one another. I know my girls were when younger. I hope her sons will allow their father’s death to bring them closer together. The last thing Sharon needs is their drama. Very close to life, Charmaine.
The good son/the bad son. All will; be revealed as the story moves on. You know there’s a bright light ahead for my heroine.
Nothing is ever the same following the death of a parent. It’ll be interesting to see how things play out with this family. Great writing, Charmaine.
Chris, I appreciate your comments every week.
She has to call one of her kids first, that’s silly. Though I wonder if her “difficult son” has picked up that he isn’t the favorite, and that makes his behavior worse.
Son 2 from the beginning is the difficult one. I left that section out. Always good to read your comments.
Such a sad and realistic slice of life. Especially the reaction of son #2. Why is it always about them instead of the real loss? Very nicely done, Charmaine.
Nancy, thanks so much.
Ugh – family dynamics and the feud between the brothers will not diminish just because their dad died. In fact, it will escalate because emotions will run high. Poor mom…
Sue, you’re so right as the story moves on. Sharon’s hands are full as she has nightly conversations with her lost husband.