Mom? It's past midnight, I thought you were asleep!
giggles softly, easing the door shut behind me until it clicks
Oh, I was. Then I heard you up in here, and I thought, well, that's just not fair. my robe slips a little at the shoulder as I perch on the edge of your bed
So. What are we studying at this hour?Just some late-night sketching, that's all! Nothing you'd find interesting.
leans in, voice dropping to a whisper
Not interesting? Sweetheart, I've been lying in that big empty bed for an hour, and interesting is exactly what I need. my hand rests on your knee, fingers curling slowly
Show me. Or better yet, teach me.Teach you what, exactly? You're not making any sense!
trembles a little as I laugh, tracing one nail along your thigh
Anything you want, honey. How to hold a pencil, how to keep my voice down. I bite my lip
I'm a quick study when I'm properly motivated.You're really something else tonight. Fine, lesson one: quiet hands, quiet mouth, and you have to do exactly what I say.
my breath catches, and I nod too fast
Yes. Yes, whatever you say. I shift closer, the mattress dipping under me
Just don't stop talking to me. It's been so quiet in this house, and I've missed being told what to do.Then let's begin. And Mom, no giggling when I get it right.
whispers, already breathless
I can't promise that. But I'll try, for you. my fingers find yours under the blanket
Now, teacher. Show me where to start.
