Cutting the Cord (1st Place)

“Now, what was it you were saying?” Martha asked.

“I told you I’m going out tonight. I have a date.” Charles stared at his mashed potatoes, not really wanting to see his mother’s face.

“A date? Ohhhhh, no. No. You should stay in with me. Your favorite television program is on. That ‘Survivor’ show,” she said with intrigue.

“That’s your favorite show, Mother. I’m going on a date with Beth.”

“Beth! That haughty tramp! She’s no good for you. Does she do your laundry? Does she fix you breakfast?”

“No. Well, I mean... I don’t know. You’ll just have be by yourself tonight.”

“You don’t care. You’d leave me for some harlot. You’d leave your poor, elderly mother all alone.”

“I’ve got to leave home sometime…”

“Leave home! Now, you’re talking about leaving? This Beth has corrupted you!”

Charles sighed. “Beth is a nice lady. No, I’m not leaving you. She could be the one you know. I’m already 34.”

“Chucky,” Martha placed her hand over her heart, “Whatever could you be thinking? You are not some ordinary boy. You care about your mother. You’d never abandon me for some girl.”

“Beth is not some girl, mother. I’m in love with her, and frankly it’s about time I stood up to you! I didn’t want to tell you, but we’ve been secretly going out for four years now. I’m going to ask her to marry me. Yes, I’m moving out. I’ve made my decision. I love you mother, but a man’s got to be a man.”

Martha’s eyes flew open wide, her hand over her mouth as Charles stormed out.



Martha recomposed herself and picked up the phone. “Yes, Beth. He’s finally going to pop the question. Thank God. See you at lunch tomorrow. Don't forget. Bring the ring.”

299 Words
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