Windscript Volume 24, 2007-2008 - Saskatchewan Writers' Guild

The Magazine of Saskatchewan High School Writing
on the left and moves the pots aside. She pulls out a bag of
cookies. Becky selects three then glances over her shoulder.
Her mother has not moved. She replaces the cookies and
rearranges the pots. She stealthily returns to her room closing
the door behind her.
Becky places a cookie on each of the three plates on
the table, “There you are Mister Jenkins, Miss Jillian, a treat for
everyone.” Becky smiles and takes a seat. She eats the cookies
ravenously, pausing only when she hears a noise in the hall.
She halts; she is sure she heard footsteps outside her door.
The silence is deafening. Becky finishes the cookies. Mum
will wake up soon.
Becky cleans up the tea party. She places the dishes
back onto the shelves and puts Mister Jenkins and Miss Jillian
on her bed. Then she picks up the teapot. She quietly opens
her door and travels to the living room. She pauses, the same
as last time. She sees her mother under a blanket now, her
body all rolled up. Becky tiptoes to the kitchen. She places
the teapot on the counter. Becky places her hands on the
counter and prepares to jump up. She hears a noise. She
turns around slowly.
Becky’s mother stands in the doorway. She speaks.
Becky’s mother always did have a way with words. Becky
closes her eyes. China shatters. Becky’s mother always did
know just what to do. Becky covers her ears. Skin becomes
a rainbow. Becky’s mother always did have that loving touch.
Becky curls into a ball. A door slams. Becky uncurls. She
walks over the broken china. Blood drips among the shards.
Becky’s been a bad girl. Next time she will be good, an angel.
There is no next time. Becky’s mother does not return. A
tall lady comes for Becky. There are no more tea parties.
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windScript volume 24