The Artist At Rest

[findonesong]

Roger sat on the couch, idily playing his guitar. The everpresent notebook was at his side and the pen'd stuck behind his ear, in case of sudden inspiration.

Typist: Open post! Please badger the front man, he won't mind talking to people.

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[agentmcgeek]

She came in, smiling warmly.

"Well, hello."

[findonesong]

Roger looked up and smiled. "Hey Mama C," he said. "Haven't seen you for awhile."

[agentmcgeek]

"Oh, well, you know how things are..."

She moved over and sat down near to him. "I miss Mark's father. it's so strange without him here. I used to bother him, or take care of him, but at least he was there. And there's no Rabbi on the ship, so I've been just reading, and trying to stay kosher." She frowned. "Which is not easy to do on this ship."

She reached over, patting his shoulder. "How's my other boy?"

[findonesong]

By some miracle, Roger managed not to scowl at the mention of Mark's father. "Your other boy is fine. He's trying to write again and maybe take up jazz for something new."

[agentmcgeek]

If he had a problem with Mark's father, she didn't notice it on his face. "Well, that's a good thing. I know that you're such a talented boy. Whatever you write will be wonderful. Remember us little peoples when you get rich and famous. I want to meet Barbara."

[findonesong]

Roger's problem was that he and Mark's father had never gotten along, and anyone who upset Mark was on Roger's shit list.

He laughed and shook his head. "Do you think I could forget my own mother-in-law? Really, now."

[agentmcgeek]

"No, of course not. You're a good boy. Not many are. You always take care of me." She patted his shoulder, before pulling her hand away once more. "I'm so happy for you and Marky. Did I say congratulations yet?"

[findonesong]

"I think so, but it's nice to hear it again. I was worried," Roger admitted. "But you and Mama are happy, so. And Mark's just - my song."

[agentmcgeek]

She tilts her head to the side, looking curiously at Roger. "You were worried? Aw, don't be such a schmutz. You love him. He loves you. Of course I'm happy."

She gets a mischievious look in her eyes. "Now if you'd only wear a white dress for me."

[findonesong]

Roger nearly choked. "A wh - you want me to wear a fu- a /dress/?"

[agentmcgeek]

She laughed, loudly. No, she dind't want him to wear a dress. Just to see the look on his face was priceless. "No, Roger. Both of you should have the nicest suits."

[findonesong]

"Give me a heart attack, why don't you?" Roger shook his head, grinning ruefully.

"I guess I can wear a suit for you," he added with a wink.