LIFE

Single Mom Blues

Every mom needs love. Even if it mucks up the household routine. Even if the children have four legs instead of two.

“That cat bites.”

I lean back from the bathroom sink to get a view of the bed.

He extends his wrist for my review. “And scratches!”

Suspending my toothbrush momentarily, I ask, “Well, what did you do? You must have provoked her!” I was scrubbing my molars before he could respond.

“Just come to bed. Forget about the cat.”

I happily comply.

This same scene repeats itself for the better part of a month. Maybe it was the blood loss that got to him but eventually he left, claiming allergies or work, I can’t remember.

Thinking about him now, I sigh. I confess I’m going to miss his company but it’s nice for things to get back to normal. I am brushing my teeth, waxing nostalgic about the feel of his skin next to mine, when the dog yelps. I lean back from the bathroom sink. I see the cat and the dog finish their nightly 15-second spat.

“You shouldn’t provoke her.” I pat the dog reassuringly. Turning to the cat I say, “You’re lucky I like to read.” She doesn’t care.

Satisfied, she curls up on the pillow next to mine and purrs deeply.

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