07 - Old friends

Alice Collins

I poured the coffee into one of the cups and picked it up with my hands. I took a sip of the dark liquid, being careful not to burn my mouth. I stared at the kitchen counter, beginning a process of reminiscing about past subjects. It had been three years since I was in Los Angeles, having a good time away from my mother and younger sisters. But those years did not prevent me from keeping in touch with them. Whenever I could, I talked to my mother via video call. My sisters were growing up more and more. Sometimes I felt bad for not being present in their growing up phase.

I always wondered why my mother didn't want to come and live here in Los Angeles. Perhaps it would be easier for her and my sisters. She could find a good-paying job, and the girls could have a good education.

Maybe she thought it would be a bother since I practically lived in Mr. Scott's house. But the last time we spoke, my mother promised me that even though she couldn't come here, she would let my