Kathryn
19
Kathryn awoke. Her breathing and heart rate were normal. The room was dark; it was still late. Her clock read twelve thirteen in the morning. Why was she awake? She shifted to her side and adjusted the pillow above her shoulder. She licked her lips and swallowed a couple times and then closed her eyes. Behind her lids, a snapshot unfolded.
The earth. Loose rich soil. Weathered hands. A mother’s hands. They were Flora’s. She was harvesting a plant. A basket with a handle stood close by. A blue plaid ribbon was tied to the handle and flecks of dirt clung to the edges of the basket.
What plant was it?
Kathryn looked closer.
Her eyes opened wide in the night of her bedroom.
Broccoli.
She laughed and went back to sleep.
The next morning, Kathryn made hash from a portion of t
