Libby Doe

I Need More!

Chapter 1

Michael was late.

"Hurry!" I yelled at him. "Get your coat on!" He was holding his school bag in his teeth while he tried to pull his coat on. I reached over and helped him with the sleeves and then zipped the zipper. I pulled the hood around his face and tied it tightly.

"Now, hurry!" I repeated. "The school bus won't wait all morning!"

A short blare from the bus horn confirmed my threat.

"One minute!" I yelled out the kitchen window.

I bent down and kissed my son on the cheek and then ushered him to the door. The chill morning air curled into the warmth of the kitchen as I opened the door. I could feel its icy breath billowing up between the loose folds of my pajamas, touching my hidden nakedness. I clutched my robe more tightly against my breast.

"Don't forget your milk money!" I shouted to Michael as he stepped onto the school bus.

He nodded, and the bus was gone.

I closed the kitchen door, but the chill was already in the room. I shuddered and rubbed my hands together.

"Coffee," I said to myself.