This scene transitions from a night of no sleep to a day of disappointment, as little Karen prepares to return to the hippodrome to check on her beloved Pegasus, and her Mama tries to prepare her.

Scene 06: Skipping Breakfast

Mama had schmeared a bagel with cream cheese and was slicing the lox very thin, the way her Krana Layala liked it, when her girl walked into the kitchen. In spite of the cheerful pink overalls and brave smile, the pallor of her little face and the dark circles around her eyes told the story of her night.

“Morning, Mama. Thank you for thinking of my favorite breakfast, but I’m not too hungry, today. If it’s all right with you, I’ll just drink some orange juice. Maybe we can share a special breakfast, tomorrow. We can get up early, so you can still make it to work on time. Right now, I need to go to the pier and look for Pegasus. Okay?”

Oh, no! She needs a good breakfast, but I don’t want to argue with her, now. She’s so weak. I’ll go along to keep the peace. Maybe I can help her a bit so she can get a bite when she’s ready to eat. This child is going to need every bit of strength she can gather.

“Here’s some juice, sweetheart. Let me get you something to take with you, just in case you need it, later.”

Mama handed her girl a tall glass and hurried to the hallway, where she had left her purse. Returning with a dollar, she gave it to Karen who tucked the money into her lucky overalls, gulped down the juice, and kissed her goodbye.

“Thanks, Mama. See you later,” her beautiful daughter called softly, as she left through the side door and disappeared up the garden path toward the front sidewalk.

©2021, Karen Lynn-Chlup. All rights reserved.