Ask Me Why

by Harloe Rae

He zips this way and that, a super-charged pinball darting around the confining alley.

My son’s standards are stupid low when it comes to women.

The isolation and loneliness become overwhelming, crashing against me with unforgiving ferocity.

Braelyn stares at me, waiting for whatever bullshit I decide to spew. But I like to keep her guessing.

“The triggers are a rolodex, spin the dial and see what pops up. Trauma is fucking hilarious like that. I’m a mess.”

Would that be too obvious? Do I actually care?

We’re all in a cuddle huddle.

“A place to get lost for a while.”