icon number two: sandra anderson
Keyword: Sandra Anderson
Emily was reluctant, but Mom insisted that she accompany her to the florist's after they closed up the diner.
Emily stood and tried to melt into the wall while her mother looked through all the arrangements.
"What do you think of this one, Emily?" Mom said, turning to face her.
Emily looked at the plant in Mom's hand and shrugged. "It looks fine."
"We should get him something nice," Mom said firmly. She frowned at the plant and set it down again.
"Well, it's the thought that counts, right?" Emily said.
Mom was biting her lip, still frowning. "Em-- you know, don't you, that there's nothing wrong with being gay?"
Emily crossed her arms in front of her chest and shut her eyes briefly. "Yes, Mom."
"There's nothing wrong with it. People just love differently, that's all. This island isn't the whole world." Mom reached out to stroke at one of the leaves of the plant. "Emily, if you ever thought that you might like girls, you know that I would--"
"Mom, please," said Emily quickly.
Her mom smiled at her a little sadly, and Emily rolled her eyes and stepped forward to hug her. Her mom clutched her tight.
"I like the one with the red flowers. It'll be cheery in the hospital room," Emily said into her mom's ear.
"I think you're right," Mom said, and she kissed Emily's hair.