JT Johnson

I was content.

I was safe.

And I lived in a place with no bugs, but happy?

I wasn't sure, but I said yes all the same.

Mostly because I wanted Nona to not worry.

I never asked about Mom, but Nona would mention her from time to time.

She'd tell me where Mom was living, if she was in rehab or out again.

I didn't care either way.

As far as I knew, my time with my mother had come to an end years ago.

The call had come in the late evening, the woman on the line informing me that Nona was behind on her rent.

When I asked how late there had been a steady ruffle of paper, then a long sigh.

Three months.

Can you tell her she needs to get back up to standing?

Tell her Lindy can't give her much more rope on this.

I've got my own bills, you know, and... I felt a cold pit in my stomach, Nona's face filling my mind as I listened to Lindy go on about bills and her own woes.

I told her I'd get it taken care of, assuring her that yes, yes, you'll get your money.

But while we were on the phone, did you get an exterminator out there yet?

You know those bugs have been a problem for a long time.

When the call ended, I instantly called Nona.

Five in a row, back to back.