An old rusty mower sits in the yard among tall green weeds. Brown stains on a trailer, covering up its yellow color. Gutters filled with autumns of years gone by. Cats patrol the wood deck and piss on an old barbecue grill. Laundry out to dry. 

The fence is falling down. Gates are crooked, dragging on dirt dug into the ground; a small mud bowl where Jr plays after rainstorms. A Tonka bulldozer is moved side to side with tiny hands while the kid makes engine noises with his mouth. Grrrr, he moans. Grrrrr.

They sit inside the trailer watching television. Old reruns of  The Rifleman starring Chuck Connors. He pops open another beer. She lays on the couch, wondering what it would have been like if she’d made a different choice.

What’s for dinner? he asks.

Hamburger Helper, she says. I’m doing it with a can of tuna.

So it’s not Hamburger Helper?

I suppose not.

It’s Tuna Helper. Right? he lights a cigarette.

Yeah. Tuna Helper.

Well, get it straight. Make up your mind before you talk. Know what you’re going to say, he blows out smoke. Too many people just talk without thinking. They just blurt out stupid things. Misinformed statements. Understand? she nods her head.

I’m going to get started. She gets up and heads to the kitchen. Pots and pans are rattled around. She picks one and begins the process of making Tuna Helper. Cats circle the trashcan.

Is that spring water tuna? I only like spring water tuna.

I know, she says. I know what you like.

He gets up and walks behind, pushing his body into hers. He starts to kiss the back of her neck. She used to like that. Nowadays, she’s repulsed by it.

Come on now, he folds his arms around her.

I’m making Tuna Helper.

That can wait.

Stop, she says. Just stop.

He gives her a push. Steps back. And walks towards the door. I’m out of here, he tells her. Going someplace where I’m appreciated.

I’m making dinner, he slams the screen door. I’m making Tuna Helper. There won’t be any when you get back. You’ll have to eat leftovers, she yells.

Jr continues playing with his Tonka bulldozer. His father pats him on the head and tells him to take care of his mom.