Daylight beams through a bay window as it frames the view of the back yard of it’s neighboring home. Near the windowsill, Doris, a middle-aged blonde sits sideways hugging her knees to her chest while scowling at the children playing.  She tucks her shoulder length hair behind her ears then re-wraps her arms around her bent legs.

Doris’ mind deeply analyzes the sight she is reviewing.

Hmmph, that little Mia is getting darker and darker as she plays in the sun. Don’t those Johnsons know to put sunblock on THAT child?

Five year old Mia resembles singer Alicia Keys, but with light hair and gray eyes.

Doris’ head shakes disappointingly.

Tah! She’s just full of joy playing with her older black brothers and sisters like they all belong together…like they belong in this neighborhood.

 Ha! Those kids…and their fake lawyer parents…

Her lips frown as if she smells a rancid stench while her head nods side to side.

…they throw backyard parties and blasting that hip hop music.

Her expression changes to cheerful as she thinks of her offspring.

MY Bethany has gone on to Grad school with an amazing life ahead of her.

She’s come a long way, and I’m so proud of her. Why, my darling already has a promising job lined up in New York City. I’m so glad she’s made good decisions. Her life’s choices were even better with my guidance – I’m sure.

It will be a true delight when my Bethany comes home this weekend. She usually comes home  with flowers and a balloon that says “Happy Mother’s Day!”

Doris smiles while stuck in deep thought.

Last year, Mia and her siblings gave their mother, Mrs. Johnson a gold necklace to celebrate her. She’s a good mom.

…I guess.

Doris releases a huff as she disappointingly admits to Mrs. Johnson being a good parent.

Mrs Johnson was busy being so delighted with her new new jewelry…

she sent the kids over that Sunday afternoon with cookies to say “Happy Mother’s Day!”…

…It was thoughtful of them.

Her face turns to a grimace.

The kids don’t like me.

They think I’m the mean old lady next door. So, of course they didn’t want to even say “hi” to me let alone show up at my front door to wish me a Happy Mother’s Day.

Doris reflects on the last Mother’s Day.

“Happy Mother’s Day Mrs. Smith!” the older kids said in unison while Mia chimed in late with their practiced announcement. The oldest boy handed me a tray of cookies, but I couldn’t stop eyeing Mia. I could feel her honey brown gaze see into my core. Time stood still as I admired her silky caramel coiled hair and her chick-let toothed smile. If only Bethany was older and settled in her life… she could’ve been a better mother to her half-breed baby, sweet Mia.