Mama Drama

When Kayla arrived at La Mitrals the patio was filled with mixed conversations and yipping from small dogs. As she wound her body through chairs and tables she looked over the heads of those who were seated for Mrs. Keifer.

Through the crowded patio Kayla could see the sun hitting Mrs. Keifer's light, brown hair. It was pulled back into an elegant bun with a red flower pin that matched her dress. Mrs. Keifer sipped a glass that seemed to be filled with iced tea. Her head was turned away from Kayla as she looked out into the surrounding garden.

"Mrs. Keifer," Kayla pulled out a chair across from the woman and took a seat. "you're early."

Mrs. Keifer slowly brought her eyes to meet with Kayla's. "I was just across the street. I bought Georgeanne some new shoes."

Kayla nodded her head. She remembered Georgeanne. She was Tom's youngest sister.

Mrs. Keifer brought her glass to her lips once again before she spoke. "Well,"

Kayla could hear the dim instrumental music playing over the patio through hidden speakers. The hustle-and-bustle of the nearby freeway could not be heard through the garden.

"How are things with Tom? Is he settled in yet?" Mrs. Keifer crossed her arms below her breasts and slightly leaned her torso against the table.

"He's fine," she said, "my roommates don't have any problems yet. Not that it would matter because Tom wants to find an apartment. The house is just too crowded for us."

Mrs. Keifer smiled. Kayla wasn't sure if she was pleased by this idea or thought of it as a joke.

"Kayla," she said, her smile disappearing quickly. "I'm sorry dear, but Tom Tom is going through a hard time right now. He doesn't want a serious relationship. I think you're letting this get to your head. Tom and Emily are getting back together. You won't be sharing an apartment with my son."

Kayla's body went stiff. "Emily?" She choked.

"Tom is in love with someone else." The woman breathed, as if it were difficult to break Kayla's heart. She stared at Kayla, waiting for the reaction she wanted. She added, "It's only a matter of time before Tom realizes he's better off with Emily. Save yourself some dignity and end it now."

The words coming from his mother's mouth were like a slap in the face. But Kayla didn't give any sign that the words were hurting her. She pushed the feelings of anger and embarrassment aside and smiled. She stood up from the table and turned her back to the woman as she left the patio.