Bonding TabathaOnce upon a time, in a land of many freeways, a mother passed away and another took her place–real fast.

Dorothy drove the car while Craig organized his briefcase on the seat between them. Los Angeles International Airport was ten minutes away. They were early, so she didn’t fight the freeway traffic; instead, she fought her nerves.

“Craig, I don’t like this. I don’t like this one bit. You can’t leave me alone with those kids this soon, especially not for two whole days.”

“What are you talking about, Dorothy? You’ve already got those boys calling you Mommy. I can’t believe a fifteen-year-old girl has you all tied in knots.”

“Damnit, Craig, she knows. Having me move in right after we scattered her mother’s ashes was a big mistake. Having me do the scattering in front of those kids was sick. It was stupid, just plain stupid. I think you want to get caught. I think you’re one of those criminals who commits a crime, then subconsciously leave clues so you can be brought to justice. I’m not that way, and I don’t like playing this dangerous game.”

“Relax, will ya? I’m not trying to get caught. The plan worked. No one outside the family suspects foul play. She got sick and her heart gave out. The insurance company paid the death claim. Her ashes are spread to the four winds. We can’t get caught regardless of anyone’s suspicions. The wicked witch is dead, Dorothy, and as far as the kids are concerned, you get all the credit.”

“Bullshit, I get all the blame.”

“Credit, Dorothy. I staged that performance so the shock factor will work on thier minds. When the shock wears off, they’ll see you as the hero. I know my kids, Dorothy. Don’t let their sad faces and tears fool you. The bitch was not loved. We’ll, maybe Tabatha loved her in a sentimental way, but she made Tabatha’s life hell, too. Can you imagine a girl with a cute body like Tabatha’s having to live and dress like a cloistered nun? She’s itching to show us her stuff, and she’ll have you to thank when she finally comes around. She’s weakening; I can tell.”

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