Become a Book Nerd
When you’re not reading books, read our newsletter.
By @Madison
A plus sign
Stares back at me.
Sure.
Certain.
Positive.
This isn’t a scene from my wishful thinking.
This is a real life nightmare.
I almost fall to the floor
But I settle on putting the toilet lid down instead
Seating myself there.
I lean back
Pulling my knees into me
As I stare at the evedential piece of plastic.
I let this happen.
I thought for sure that I’d never end up here.
I’d convinced myself that I was destined to correct my mother’s mistakes.
I was a child
Thinking that history absolutely should not, could not, would not
Repeat itself.
Yet, here I am
Just like her.
I let a single tear fall
Before wiping it from my cheek.
Decidedly
I stand up and wash my hands
Before wrapping the test in toilet paper
And marching to the kitchen.
I walk into the pantry and throw the toilet paper bundle into the trash.
With that
I tie up the bag
And take it outside
Leaving the symbol of my doom for the garbage man to take away tomorrow morning.
I go back inside and curl up on the couch
Pretending to watch Saved By the Bell reruns
As I let my mind go blank.
When Izzy gets home
I lie through my teeth
Telling her I feel much better.
When you’re not reading books, read our newsletter.
Join the conversation