“Hi Mom.” I return her hug, squeezing her close and finding comfort in the familiarity. “It’s good to see you.”
“But why didn’t you tell me you were coming? I would have prepared the guest room.” She ushers me inside as she talks.
“It’s no big deal, I’m just staying for a night or two.”
“Well, you're welcome to stay as long as you like. You hungry?”
“I could go for one of your signature club sandwiches if you’ve got the goods.” I grin. Like any good mother, Louise Milner is always ready to dish up some food.
“Always on hand. Come on.” She hurries to the kitchen. “It would be a real embarrassment if I didn’t have the basics for a club sandwich on hand, since you’re using my secret recipe in your casinos now.”
“Well, I wouldn’t have held it against you since I’m here unannounced.” I chuckle as I follow her and take a seat at the kitchen table, watching as she bustles around. I usually only see my mother once a year. I send money back and take care of her, but that’s not the same as face-to-face family time.
“So what brings you to my neck of the woods in little old Jamestown, Kentucky?” She throws some bacon into a pan as she’s talking, and it starts sizzling immediately, filling the kitchen with the homey smell of cooking. “No bad news, I hope?” She looks at me anxiously.
“The opposite, actually. I closed the deal on that casino in Monte Carlo.”
“That’s wonderful, David. Congratulations.” I watch as she carefully picks the bacon out of the pan and throws the already buttered bread in, browning it slightly on both sides. “Turkey okay? I’m out of ham.”
“Sure, thanks.” I clear my throat. “I also thought it would just be nice to see you. More often, I mean. In general.” Her back is to me as I say these words but I notice her shoulders relax slightly.
“Of course I’d love that.” She continues working on the sandwich, her back to me. When she turns around, her blue eyes have a slight mist in them. “It’s always good to see you.” She sets the prepared plate down in front of me and squeezes my hand quickly.
“I could also fly you out to Vegas now and then, if you want.” I take a bite of the sandwich, savoring the crispy bacon.
“I think that’s a wonderful idea.” I notice that my mother’s hair is streaked with more grey than in the past. It’s barely visible against her natural blonde, however. Only the deep crinkles around her eyes and mouth attest to the fact that she’s pushing 80.
“Private. No hassle for you,” I add.
“Sure, sweetheart. What’s put all of this into your head?” She pulls up a chair opposite me and studies my face with some concern.
“I don’t know. I had some conversations recently about family with a friend. Someone who values family very much.” I look away and see her in my mind. “It made me question my own priorities,” I admit.
“Oh, David.” My mother’s voice is soft as she reaches across the counter and gives my hand another squeeze. “You’ve been a wonderful son. Look at how you’ve taken care of me!” She gestures vaguely to the room we’re sitting in. “This house! I never dreamed I’d grow old in a house like this.”
“It’s not the same as spending time together.”
“No, but I’m not alone here, honey. I’ve got so many lovely friends in Jamestown. It’s home.” She pauses. “And Vegas is your home now.” She gives me an encouraging nod.
“I guess since the Monte Carlo deal closed, I had more time to think about the personal aspects of my life,” I say, feeling a wry smile creep on to my face.
“Well, you still have time to start a family of your own. If that’s what you want.”
“Let’s see.” Trust my mother to read between the lines and see what’s really on my mind. Mothers always know, I guess.
“It makes sense, actually.” She sits back thoughtfully. “You’ve been so dedicated to your career, for years now. But it seems like you’ve accomplished all the big goals.”
I nod.
“Well, then. No shame in thinking about what else you might possibly want out of life. Aside from your career.” Mom nods. “Now, you wolfed that first sandwich down. Do I need to whip up another one?” She reaches for my plate, which only has a few spare crumbs on it.