I’m walking downtown, past windows already decorated for Christmas even though it’s not even Thanksgiving yet, when my phone rings.
Mom.
I debate not answering. We haven’t talked much since I moved out. She’s called a few times, and left voicemails about hoping I’m well and missing me. Nothing about Chett, whichsurprises me. Maybe Maggie talked to her. Maybe she’s finally accepting my decision.
I answer. “Hi, Mom.”
“Sloane!” She sounds relieved. Way too relieved. “Oh, thank God. I’ve been trying to reach you.”
“I’ve been busy. What’s up?”
“I wanted to check about Thanksgiving. You’re still coming, right?” There’s something in her voice. Anxiety. Nervousness. “Your father and I are really looking forward to seeing you. It’s been so long since we’ve all been together.”
“Yes, I’m coming. I said I would.”
“Good. That’s good.” A pause. “What time do you think you’ll get here? I want to make sure everything’s ready.”
“Two-ish?”
“Perfect. That’s perfect.” Another pause. Too long. “And you’re doing, okay? You sound tired.”
“I’m fine. Just job hunting.”
“Have you found anything?”
“Not yet. Being selective.”
“That’s smart. Don’t take the first thing.” Her voice is too careful. Too rehearsed. “Your father and I have been talking. We want you to know we support you. Whatever you decide. We just want you to be happy.”
The words should make me feel better.
They don’t.
“Thanks, Mom.”
“So, Thursday? Around two?”
“Yeah. I’ll be there.”
“Wonderful. I’m making your favorite. Green bean casserole with the crispy onions.”
That’s Dad’s favorite, not mine. “Sounds great.”
“And, Sloane?” Her voice softens. “I love you. We both do.”
“Love you too.”
I hang up and stand there on the sidewalk, watching snow start to fall. Something’s wrong. Mom was hiding something. But I push it away. It’s probably nothing. Just pre-holiday stress. She always gets weird about family gatherings.
I text Maggie.
SLOANE: Did Mom sound weird to you when she called about Thanksgiving?
MAGGIE: She called you, too? Yeah, she was being strange. Very insistent we’re both coming.
SLOANE: Probably just wants the family together. It’s been a while.
MAGGIE: Probably. See you Thursday?
