Chapter 4: Mama's Blessing

As I walked into the kitchen, I saw my mother standing over a pot of boiling water. She didn't notice that I had walked in until I leaned over the counter.

"Oh, hey honey."

"hey mom."

"Where have you been?"

"Out with some friends."

"Was Tristan there? You know I will not let you two see each other now that the outlaw of love legalized."

"Mom..."

"Madelyn..."

"But-"

"No, buts. Just do what I say and maybe one day you'll get married to someone who can supply you and your family."

I looked at my mothers frail frame. Her once vibrant blue eyes were now gray and her fingers small and nimble. 

"Madelyn, promise me you'll end things with Tristan? I know you love each other, but there's your problem. Love, you can get in a lot of trouble." 

"Mom, i'm sticking by him. With or without your approval. He's been a great guy who loves me, and has loved me for the past two years. I just can't ignore that, and leave him alone."

My mothers already stern looking face hardened as my words sunk into to her mind. A worried expression crossed her face as she dropped the spoon in the pot of boiling water, bubbling on the stove. 

"You're going to get in trouble."

"How?"

"If you get caught."

"Easy, I won't."

"You are not to see Tristan again. I'm sorry Madelyn." 

Tears began to flood my eyes, breaking the barrier and pouring out, waterfall fashion, onto my face. I stormed upstairs to my bedroom and threw off my my shoes. I began crying even harder, my breathing starting to suffocate me. I put my hand to my face and looked at the mirror. As my eyes examined the sad, small looking girl in the mirror, my mind didn't recognize her. My black hair fell over my shoulder, wavy, yet in place. My cheeks and eyes were stained red, and my lips pouty and full. My mind began to wonder exactly why love had been outlawed  and what I could do about it. I saw Tristan's picture taped to the mirror, and I felt my heart shatter all over again.