60

 

       LORRAINE

 

    She hovers behind me, not knowing what she can do and what she can't.  The vegetables are clean, but I go on scrubbing them   She  shuffles and leans over to look out the glass in the door.  Well, Janice and Jim are here.  Is there something you want me to do?  Something in the refrigerator?  Carry something out?

    I just give her a look and check the oven.  I cook every day.  What makes you think I'd need help today?

    I just thought I could help.

    Is Elvira with them?

    I don't see her.

    Well, I wish she'd get that ham up here.  She always takes it out before she's dressed and then it's cold by the time she gets up here.  I left room in here to heat it up.

    I don't see Doug either.

    I don't know if he'll be up or not.  Doug hasn't been around much lately.

    Busy?

    I look at her, but she's just staring out the window.  I suppose so, I say.

    I thought sure he's be here.  Did you tell him I'd be here?  I brought the badminton set along.  Remember how we used to play badminton?  She laughs.  We'd play until it got dark and you couldn't

    You want to get the iced tea out?

    Okay.  She goes over to the refrigerator and opens it.  Well, it's finished, huh?  I must say it looks better than I ever thought it would.  It's strange to look at things and remember how they were.  There was a window there and

    You haven't changed much have you?  Still can't talk and do something.  And still stand and hold the refrigerator door open.

    She looks hurt.  I was just          She peers into the bright light.

    Iced tea!  I'd like to see your electric bill.

    The kitchen looks nice.  I have to admit I wasn't so sure.  I guess you're pleasantly surprised too.

    Your father's happy with it.

    And you're not?

    I'm not particular.

    You'd have just as soon stayed down at the other place?

    I shrug.  I don't like her asking me things like this.  She stands there, pitcher in her hand, waiting.

    Put that thing down!  What's your father doing?  He can take the longest time to do nothing!  I swear!  See what he's doing.  Probably showing Jim every place where things are crooked and explaining why he got this siding instead of the other.

    He's dancing with Aunt Elvira.

    What?

    He just ran out the driveway and started dancing with her.  They're both laughing.

    I can't see her face, but she's smiling.  Her voice is smiling.

            Well, you go out there and tell her to get that ham in here.