Chapter Thirty-Six

“How about a cup, or three, of some coffee?” Nizhoni suggested as they trudged into the living room once arriving back at home.

“No, I don’t think so, dear. I think I’m going to turn in for the night.” She sounded tired, but not from a lack of sleep.

“Mom.” Rose’s eyes snapped to Nizhoni, the name making her stop in her tracks. It was rare that the younger woman called her ‘Mom.’ It was a name she’d bestowed upon the older woman many years ago, and it made Rose’s heart clench with maternal adoration just as much now as it did when she was a child. “Have some coffee with me, please. It’s been a long, extremely emotional day and I could really use your company.” Rose looked down, lids lowered away from the piercing ebony depths, and breathed once, twice, and again.

She raised her head, which had dropped when she lowered her eyes, and smiled. “Make it a strong tea and tot of whiskey, you’ve got yourself a deal.” Nizhoni smiled and her shoulders relaxed slightly.