Job Discomfort - Chapter 11

When Septima saw her daughter Phoenix, she looked down and continued to peel the potatoes for her green bean casserole. She acknowledged her and received her kiss on the cheek. She tried not to react when she saw how Phoenix was glowing.

She laughed to herself and said, “You are looking mighty spry today.”

“Oh really?” Phoenix looked in the mirror and patted her hair.

“Yes,” her mother said. She could clearly see that her daughter was in another zone and was glad to witness Phoenix coming back from the walking dead.

“How is Tyre?” she asked. “I liked what I saw. Somebody taught that young man some manners. You don’t see that a lot these days in the young people. Good manners, smart, and quite a looker!”

“Aw, Ma,” cried Phoenix.

“I’m just saying, "she trailed off. She knew when to back off and let Phoenix share what she wanted when she wanted. “I will be ready to walk out in ten minutes,” Septima said as she washed her hands.  

February 21, 2026