Michael sat in AP Physics idly taking notes as the teacher, Ms. Brown, continued her lecture. A knock at the door interrupted Ms. Brown and everyone jerked at the intrusion.
"Mike," Ms. Brown said as she turned from the principal back to the class. "Please, grab your things and go with Ms. Jenkins."
Arching an eyebrow in confusion, Mike began to gather his things together and headed for the exit.
Ms. Jenkins led Michael back to her office and Michael was surprised when he saw his father's attorney.
"Hello, Michael," said the large black man, getting up from leaning against the wall to reach out a hand. "I'm sorry, boy, to have to tell you like this. Your father was in an accident and passed away."
Ms. Jenkins was rubbing his arm, Michael realized after a moment and he gave himself a shake.
"Mom?" Michael asked.
"Cindy is speaking with her," the black man nodded. "I asked for you."
Michael nodded. "Thanks, Dave. I do appreciate it," Michael said after a moment. "Do you have a car? I don't think I should drive at the moment."
"Yes," Dave nodded and shot a look at Ms. Jenkins who gave him a nod. "It's waiting outside."
"I'll call," Ms. Jenkins said somberly. "Or, your lawyer can contact me. I will get the papers you need to keep up on your classes."
Michael nodded as Dave led him out.
The drive home was a blur as Michael's mind ran amok. Thoughts and images of his father's infrequent visits. Glimpses of a man pushing him on a swing, catching him as he slid down a slide.
Walking into the small house, Michael grunted as his mother leapt into his arms. As he wrapped his arms around her, he felt the tears running down his chest through his tee shirt.
"She's resting," Michael said as he came back downstairs. "What is the itinerary for his funeral? Will we be invited?"
"You are not," Dave said as Cindy began to look through her papers. "Further, as per your father's wishes, you will receive your inheritance after your half-sisters and his wife receive theirs."
Michael nodded, thought, and looked up. "Can mom and I go together?"
"Yes," Dave smiled. "Your father thought you might ask. I have you scheduled for ten on Friday."
"When is the funeral?" Michael asked in a low voice.
"Thursday," Dave sighed. "At two. It should run about an hour.
"The cemetery closes at eight," Dave continued when Mike gave him a curious look. "Perhaps if you stopped by after dinner . . ."
"Thanks, Dave," Michael said again. "I'll make sure we're there at ten."
Dave nodded. "You take care of yourself, boy," Dave said as he lay a heavy hand on Mike's shoulder. "We do have psychologists on standby if you or your mom need to talk."
Mike nodded and held out a hand.
Jennifer awoke to a strange smell. Getting up, she brushed her long, golden blonde hair back and walked downstairs.
"It's been a long time since you cooked for me," Jennifer said as she came around the corner.
"You're too worried about me getting my school work done," Mike smiled as he turned back to look at his mother. As always, he was amazed at her beauty. "With no homework, I thought now was the time to pamper you for a while."
Lurching forward, Jennifer wrapped her son in an immense hug.
"I love you, Baby," Jennifer said gently. "I'm sorry I fell apart earlier."
"I do not accept your apology," Mike smiled as he hugged her back. "You have nothing to apologize for."
"Such a good boy," Jennifer said, then froze.
Mike almost groaned as he had a physical response to his mother's large breasts poking into him.
"Not so little any more," Jennifer said in amusement. "And growing into a fine young man."
"Sorry, mom," Mike said as he blushed.