On her third night with us, Grandma J gives me a book called Kids Can Microwave. Because of Dad’s dialysis appointments, we’ve been eating frozen meals that Mom makes on weekends. “Cooking is science too,” Grandma says and flips to Spanish-style rice with vegetables. Mom excuses herself to walk the dog and comes back with puffy eyes. We’re sharing the big bed because Grandma’s in mine and Dad’s downstairs on the hospital rental. In the morning, I crack six eggs into a Pyrex dish, add shredded cheese and watch the microwave puff it up. By the time Grandma’s at the table, the omelet sits on her plate like bits of worn sponge. “Eat up,” my mother says, brisk and smiling. “You don’t want to discourage her.”
(written by Claire Tacon, read by Chioke I'Anson)
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