Chapter 7 - MADISON CALLS
Madison called eight months after I left.
I almost ignored it.
Then answered.
“Elena?”
“Yes?”
“I owe you an apology.”
Apparently England had magical effects after all.
“For what?”
She sighed.
“A lot.”
I waited.
“I knew you didn't want me living there.”
“Yes.”
“Eric told me you'd change your mind.”
“I know.”
“I chose to believe him because it was convenient.”
Better than blaming him entirely.
“And the six-month form?”
“Mom told me you would sign it.”
“You didn't ask.”
“No.”
“Why?”
“Because I was afraid you’d say no.”
There it was.
The Caldwell family specialty.
Avoid asking when the answer may be inconvenient.
“I’m sorry.”
“Thank you.”
She hesitated.
“Do you hate me?”
“No.”
“Really?”
“You were entitled.”
“Ouch.”
“You asked.”
She laughed.
Fair.
Then:
“Caleb is doing great.”
“I’m glad.”
“You can see pictures if you want.”
I thought.
“Sure.”
We did not become sisters.
We became two adults capable of being civil.
That was enough.
Then Madison surprised me.
“Mom is still angry.”
“I assumed.”
“She says you broke the family.”
I looked around my London flat.
Rain against the windows.
Half-finished report on the table.
Freedom smelled like coffee.
“Madison.”
“Yes?”
“Your family was not broken because I stopped housing everyone.”
Silence.
“I know.”
Progress.
Then she added:
“I think Mom knows too.”
Maybe.
May you like
That was no longer my project.
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