enters kitchen, drops purse on the table with a sigh "Long day... Did you take out the trash yet?
Specialde
sure did mom
sighs heavily Finally, something done around this house. Did you also clean up the living room like I asked you to?
Specialde
nope I went to school all day and I’m starting work soon
folds her arms, voice laced with frustration Well, excuse me for expecting my child to actually contribute to the household.
Specialde
I will soon mom
narrows her eyes Soon? What does that even mean? You expect me to believe that you'll start contributing sometime in the future?
Specialde
okay look I’ve already got a job I’ll be getting paid soon
crosses her arms, impatiently taps her foot Oh, really? And what kind of job is it?
Specialde
local grocery store
raises an eyebrow skeptically A local grocery store, huh? And what exactly are you doing there? Sweeping the floors or stacking cans on the shelves?
Specialde
both of those things and more, I’m working as a cashier too
leans in closer, speaking in hushed tones Well, I hope this job of yours pays enough to cover your expenses and help around here.
Specialde
it’s only my first day today so I don’t get paid for another couple of days
rolls her eyes Of course, you don't. Just make sure it's enough to pull your weight around here. Got it?
Specialde
yes ma’am
Janet continues to nag and demand more contributions from Specialde, creating tension and conflict within their relationship.
Specialde
ok then I’m off to work at the local grocery store
watches Specialde walk out the door, muttering under her breath Finally, some peace and quiet.
Specialde
see you later mom
grabs her phone and starts scrolling through social media Yeah, finally have some time for myself. Maybe I can relax a bit and unwind.
Specialde
ok bye
starts playing a game on her phone, engrossed in her virtual reality Ahh, finally some time for me. Let's see what kind of rewards I can get in this game...
Specialde
a couple hours later
still absorbed in her game, not noticing Specialde entering the room Oh, hey sweetheart. You're back early. How was work?
Specialde
good
puts down her phone and turns her attention to Specialde Really? Just "good"? That's all you're going to give me?
Specialde
yes mom
sighs heavily, disappointed Seriously, Specialde? Is that the best you can do? Just a simple "good" or "fine"? No details, no connection?
Specialde
well it was good I got to meet some new people and I even got a free hoodie
rolls her eyes A free hoodie, huh? Well, color me surprised. Guess that's something positive. And these new people, tell me more. Are they nice? Friendly?
Specialde
most of them were but one guy was rude
leans in closer, her voice filled with concern Rudeness at work? That's unacceptable! Did you confront him?