When In Rome
Date Published: May 24, 2023, 9:37pm
Written By: safeandhappy
When In Rome
Serena
In May, a graduation ceremony. Students from the University listened to a speech given by the Dean of the Science Department, Dr. Zachery Robertson. His daughter, Serena, listened from the audience. She felt moved by his speech. She was proud to see her father on stage speaking such words of encouragement. University was still years off for Serena, but she hoped to attend this one. She got goosebumps when she thought that her father might give a speech when she graduates. Tears flowed down Serena’s cheeks when her father finished. The crowd erupted in applause. The students stood and threw their hats in the air.
Serena stood up and wiped tears from her eyes before clapping. She looked at her mother, Analeise, who looked back at her. Analeise put an arm around Serena’s shoulder and squeezed. “That was a really good speech,” Serena smiled.
“It was,” Analeise smiled. “Do you feel the energy here?”
Serena gasped. “Yeah, I do,” she said amazed.
“Come on, let’s go see dad,” Analeise said.
“Sure,” Serena nodded.
They made their way through the crowd. They saw Zachery speaking to colleagues and students. Undoubtedly, they were all very excited about the upcoming excavation in Italy. Their departure was less than a week away. Dr. Robertson would lead the team.
Among the group was another professor, Dr. John Roman. Serena knew him well since he was a friend of the family.
“Hey, girl,” Serena heard. She looked over to see her friend, Bethany. She was Dr. Roman’s daughter.
Serena smiled reflexively. “Hey, girl,” she replied. They hugged.
“That was so much fun,” Bethany said excitedly.
“It really was. I was so moved I actually cried,” Serena admitted.
Zachery approached. “Hey girls, how are you?” he asked.
“Hi, daddy,” Serena smiled.
“Hi, Dr. Robertson,” Bethany smiled.
“Dad, that speech wassogood,” Serena said.
“Thanks. Yeah, it felt really good,” Zachery said. “Are you excited to spend summer vacation together?” he asked. Both the girl’s fathers would be in Italy this summer. Analeise wanted to go with them, so Dr. Roman’s wife, Norma, volunteered to watch Serena while they were away.
“Yeah,” Serena said excitedly. She smiled brightly at Bethany.
“Yeah, I am too. I just hope Victoria doesn’t boss you around too much,” Bethany rolled her eyes.
Then, with all confidence and unassuming presence appeared Bethany’s older sister, Victoria. She put a graceful arm around Bethany’s shoulder and said, “Don’t be silly, dear sister, I already have you for that.” She smiled at Bethany in a loving and playful manner.
Serena laughed. She admired Victoria’s mannerisms.
“No kidding. You’re always bossing me around,” Bethany complained.
“It’s because I want you to grow up to be as elegant and charming as me someday,” Victoria stroked Bethany’s hair and then gave her a boop on the nose.
“Well at least you’ll leave Serena alone,” Bethany said.
“Well, I doubt there’s much I could teach such a polite and lovely young lady as Serena anyways. So why waste my energy?” Victoria asked rhetorically.
Serena blushed at Victoria’s flattery. “Thanks,” she said sincerely.
Victoria smiled at Serena admiringly. She paused and then said, “if you’ll excuse me for a moment. I need to visit the ladies’ room…, or port-a-potty as it were. Ciao.” She walked away. Her gait was a patient gesture.
“Yeah, I’m going too. Are you coming, Serena?” Bethany asked.
“Yeah, I need to, as well,” Serena nodded.
They enjoyed the rest of the graduation ceremony. Lots of introductions and handshakes were made. When folks started to disperse, the Robertsons and the Romans walked back to their vehicles. On the ride home, Serena’s head bobbed. Being out in the sun all day had made her sleepy.
In the late evening, Analeise walked to Serena’s room. “Are you going to bed soon?” she asked.
“Yep, I will,” Serena answered.
“Are you wearing a pull-up?” Analeise asked curiously.
“No, I haven’t had anything to drink for a while so I’ll be fine,” Serena replied.
“It’s your choice at home. But remember to wear one every night at the Romans. You’re a guest in their house,” Analeise said.
“I know that,” Serena said embarrassed, “and I will.”
“Are you sure you don’t want to put one on tonight?” Analeise asked. “Start getting into a routine?”
“Mom,” Serena said annoyed.
“Sorry,” Analeise said. “I’m just trying to help. Good night.”
“Good night,” Serena said. She sat on her bed and processed. She resented Analeise for ruining the good vibes of the day, however, she knew her mom meant well.
Serena stood, walked to her dresser and opened her underwear drawer. She took the pink package of pull-ups in her hand. She used to have to wear one every night but that was years ago. As she grew older, she argued with her mother that she shouldn’t have to wear them. Eventually, they became optional as long as she slept with a rubber sheet and did her own laundry. She couldn’t always get away with it. If she drank soda close to bedtime or if she had been in a particularly wet season, Analeise insisted that she wore protection.
She replaced the package where she wished it would remain forever; safely tucked away and out of sight. She gazed at the package while she shut the drawer. She went to bed and slumbered peacefully.