The Monster: Chapter 1
The instant Tommy’s car disappeared from sight Wilma underwent a transformation. Gone was the little girl that wanted Jen to read her stories at night, braid her hair, or just snuggle in front of the children’s programs. The person, who fifteen minutes earlier had asked her to play with Barbie dolls after Daddy left, changed into somebody else right before Jen’s eyes.
“You can’t tell me what to do,” Wilma declared. “You’re not my real mommy.”
The change was so sudden that, at first, Jen didn’t know how to react. What had just happened? Then she remembered that it was the first time after she moved in with Tommy that he had left her alone with Wilma. It was only natural that the girl felt insecure and reacted in some way. All Jen had to do was to act like the adult that she was.
“Let’s go inside, Wilma. We can play with your Barbie dolls before supper.”
Wilma didn’t say anything and just stood in the driveway scowling.
“What do you want me to cook for supper?” Jen tried.
“Poop food. You’re not my real mommy, and fake mommies only make poop food.”
“Dog poop or cat poop?” Jen couldn’t help but let it slip out. “Chicken poop? Well, I’m going inside. You can stand here if you like. It’s a lovely evening, after all.”
Wilma followed her reluctantly into the house. Jen could hear the girl mutter something about it being a poop evening anyway.