I just got back from town. Wandering out of town makes me very tired and I miss my hometown, either with the neighbours or with the streets and ambiences. Now it is already 11 p.m. I came from London to Gloucester and took the last train. Then, before I hopped on the train, I sent a message to my brother, David. But, when I arrived, he didn’t pick me up at the station, so I borrowed a bicycle from the baker shop beside the station. And now, where is he?
The things make me go back to my home is, our family diner will be claimed by the city person called Mr. Thompson. When I received the letter, I was so angry. However, Hughes Diner was already built 40 years ago, and I’m the 3rd generation which is trustworthy to manage those dinners. Well, because I’m exhausted and overwhelmed, I just fall asleep easily, without waiting for David’s come.
At midnight between 2-3 a.m, I just woke up and was dying to pee. Quickly, I went to the toilet in the middle of dim house lights. Feels creepy, but however, this is my house. I shouldn't be afraid of things in my house. Isn’t it? After the toilet business, I went back to my room and passed my mother’s room, with the opened door. But, that’s feeling weird, because my mother never opens the door room. She always closed the door, even though she’s in her room. Fully curious about my mother’s room, I tried to visit her rooms (which never opened for the whole of my life!!).
When I twisted the doorknob, I realized if she’s not in her room. Finally, I know whatever inside. The luxury dressing table, the big wardrobe, and a comfortable bed. All in a vintage style typical of the Victorian. Ah, my mother always loves vintage things. On her dressing table, I saw face powder in a Victorian powder jar, lipsticks and rouges, comb and brush set, don't forget her favourite perfume before she married, Chanel Coco. How full of vanities she is.
Even though I'm a girl, I never have full makeup as my mother does. My hands were already fulfilled with cooking oil and flours, indicating that I was overworked in a downtown restaurant kitchen. I never touch face powder, perfume, blush on, and others make up tools. I’m so amazed with my mother, although she is a widow, she still has time to take care of her personal grooming, but neither for me. But, in the corner of the room, I saw a table, with an offering of incense, a candle, a gold plate, a wine goblet, and dry bones. I’m not surprised enough, because I know if my mother’s like something dark and gothic like this. She said this is only one hobby on the sidelines of busy running the diners. Then, because I’m curious enough with the wine goblet, I tried to hold and peek at the glass, curious about the contents inside.
In the midst of my admiration and curiosity, I didn't realize that my mother had been waiting at the door. And finally, she cleared his throat.
“Ehm, what are you doing in my room, Dora? Did you know that entering someone else's room without permission is very rude?” My mother said, with her heavy and cold sounds.
I was shocked and put back that goblet and then I ducked. I felt guilty with my mother.
“I’m so sorry Mother, I just came back from the toilet and saw your room’s open.” Now, I’m afraid of her. She so cringed and seemed like ready to eat me, soon or later. My mother is the fiercest and cruel mother in this village, that’s why I chose to migrate to London than living in this creepy house. Besides, I’m not close enough with her. I’m closer to my late father who already passed away 10 years ago.
“Are you looking for David, Dora? He was already in his room. He just came lately from church to take care of the funeral of one of the villagers here. That’s why he doesn’t pick you up at the station.” She explained.
“Alright, Mother. I will meet him tomorrow morning.” I said.
“Don’t forget to join the morning breakfast, it seems like David has something important for you.” Mother said again.
“Yeah, Mother. I think so. By the way, is that true about our Diner?” I tried to ask her.
“You will know by tomorrow.” Answer her, with her cold smile. I got goosebumps on my body. Then, I said goodbye to my mother.
“Okay then. I should go back to my room. See you at breakfast, Mother. Good night.” I said.
“No, Dora. Thank you. And goodbye.” Her answer made me more terrifying and quickly left her room. After that, I just fell asleep on my bed.
In the morning, I attend breakfast together with my family. David already stand by on dining table, and I saw Mrs. Kinsley, our maid.
“Good morning, Dora. It’s been so long.” Mrs. Kinsley said.
“Good Morning Mrs. Kinsley. Good Morning, David.” I respond while taking my bread and jam. David just read a newspaper and flipped the pages.
“Where’s mother?” I ask. For a moment, David stopped his activity.
“So, this is the perfect time. Dora, mother already passed away last yesterday. That’s why I asked you to go back home.” David said.
“What? I just talked with her last night. At Mama’s room.” I just said I don't believe him.
“You crazy? I took care of her body last night at the church!!!” He yelled at me. I stopped chewing my bread, then feeling goosebumps, again.
So, who is her last night? At Mama’s Room?
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