Page 6 of Property of Bones

“Oh, good,” I smile. “The universal payment for unpaid labor.”

Mama tries to look innocent, but she’ssopleased with herself. She always gets me roped into these things with that gentle voice and those pitiful eyes. And because I love her more than air, I always say yes even when my back’s sore and I haven’t had a day to myself in weeks.

And honestly, it makes my heart happy to help. I love spending time with Ashley and Aunt Molly.

“I think this is everything,” Mama says, handing me the list and her bank card. “I’ll call you if I think of something else. Don’t rush, Sunny. There’s nothing on that list I need immediately. Have fun with your aunt and cousin for a few hours.”

I grab my keys and purse off the hook. “I will, Mama,” I say, leaning down to kiss her cheek. “I love you lots.”

“Love you lots, too, bug. Get yourself something sweet,” Mama calls after me. “You deserve a treat!”

I pause in the doorway, glancing back. I love how she still treats me like her little girl.

“Like what? Ice cream?”

“Or a man!” she hollers, laughing so hard she nearly chokes.

“Mama!”

I quickly close the door before she can start in on how I “never go out” and “should really consider dating that handsome boy from the butcher counter.” Lord, give me strength.

***

Pulling into a parking spot at Marv’s, I sigh as I turn off the engine. Time got away from me and I ended up spending the entire day with Ashley and Aunt Molly. It was a ton of fun, but now the day is gone and I still haven’t gotten Mama’s groceries.

Grabbing my phone, I hit Mama’s name.

“Hey bug, everything okay?”

“I’m so sorry, Mama,” I sigh. “I lost track of time and I’m just getting to Marv’s Market. They close in thirty minutes.”

“That could have waited until tomorrow, Sunny,” Mama says. “I figured you went home already.”

“Not yet,” I say, grabbing my purse and heading toward the store. “On the plus side, Ashley’s dorm looks fantastic. She’s so excited to move in.”

“I bet she is,” Mama chuckles. “Just take those groceries home and bring them to me tomorrow. There’s no sense in you driving an extra fifteen minutes from your apartment to bring them to me.”

“Actually, that sounds like a great idea,” I smile. “Make sure your alarm is set before heading to bed.”

“I’m the parent, bug,” Mama laughs. “I know these things.”

“Well, you are getting old, woman,” I tease. “Just want to make sure your memory is still working.”

“You little devil,” she laughs. “I’m going to bed. See you tomorrow, Sunny. Love you lots.”

“Love you lots, too, Mama. Later.”

The familiar hum of fluorescent lights buzzes overhead as I make my way through the store. I offer a polite smile to Mr. Jenkins, the evening manager.

“Evening, Mr. Jenkins,” I say.

“Sunny,” he grins, adjusting his glasses. “Thought you had the day off?”

“I do, but Mama asked for groceries and you know how she gets when she’s out of her favorite crackers.”

“Dangerous,” he chuckles. “You be careful out there.”

I nod and move on, weaving through the aisles like I’ve done it hundreds of times. Which, I have. I spot Katie, who works most nights, near the bread section, chatting with a customer. She waves, and I wave back with a soft smile. She mouths,“Love your dress!”and I mouth“Thank you!”before heading for the dairy case.

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