Meg? Is that you? Get in here, Ellen said. Where you been? Oh. That’s right. You went to New York to become a Rockette. How’d that workout for you? There was no answer.

I’ve been waiting for you. Every night, I say my prayers, sending one up for only you. I swear.

The wind blew outside. Sky grew dark. Rain fell.

You still mad at me? Ellen took a drink of cheap vodka. I always had the best intentions. Tried to help you. But you were too far gone. Out every night. Stealing liquor from my cabinet. Smoking my cigarettes. So I back-handed you a couple of times. Wasn’t like you didn’t deserve it.

The rain fell harder. Lightning. A full-on storm. Ellen turned on the radio. Adjusted the antenna. Dolly Parton was singing. Sang about a coat of many colors.

I used to sing this to you. Remember?

Only the thunder answered.