Peggy snuffed out her cigarette. Her feet ached from standing all day at the hospital laundry and she missed Karen. For the last twelve years, this time of day was when she and Karen talked—about school, boys, their ambitions. Sometimes they fought—mothers and daughters do. Karen was all she had since Edmond walked out. A few days after graduation, Karen announced that she’d gotten a job at the diner. She was so proud to be able to help Peggy with the rent now. Peggy was proud too. But she had wanted so much more for her baby girl.
Lance over at My Blog Can Beat up Your Blog has contrived this great link-up called The 100 Word Song. Write a story in one hundred words, based on a song. This week’s song is The Dimming of the Day by one of my favorite musicians, Bonnie Raitt. I’ve been using various prompts to explore my character Karen. At this point it’s more character sketch, than story. The more I write, the more she and her acquaintances tell me about themselves. You can read more here.
:( So poignant and sad. We always want so much for our kids. I felt a little ache in my heart while I read this.
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ReplyDeleteI like the deep look into Peggy. The last line says a lot. Thank you for linking up this week!
ReplyDeleteI wonder how Karen will relate to her later.
Mothers always want more for their children...and at the same time with their children would stay with them always :)
ReplyDeleteIt's so sad to miss a child who is nearby and yet long to miss that child far away because far away would mean more for the future.
ReplyDeleteVery poignsnt and sad and spot on too.
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