I don't remember how soon after Granddaddy died. It wasn't too long, I don't think, though the days in between all blended together while I got ready to leave.

One evening I was looking at the bus schedules online. Taking a bus would be easiest, though I didn't know what to do with all my things. I thought about leaving them with David for safekeeping, but I didn't want to impose on him. Besides, what if I never came back?

Mama came in and stood over my shoulder. I closed down the web page and turned to look at her. Her eyes were large and she kept blinking like she was trying to stop herself from crying.

"Mama?" I said. "What is it?" I already knew there was only one thing that could ever make Mama cry, but I wanted it to be something else so much my stomach ached.

"He's gone." Mama squeezed the top of a chair. "Heart attack. Who knew he'd go so soon?"

I didn't reply. I turned and stared at the computer screen. The colors went right through me along with a mess of thoughts that had nothing to do with anything. Mama stared over my shoulder. I turned around, slowly, and looked at her.

"Bus schedules?" Mama said. "At a time like this you're thinking about bus schedules?"

"Mama – "

"Honestly, Elizabeth, does anything ever go through your head other than you going to Boston? Your granddaddy is dead and you don't have the decency to stop looking at your damn bus schedule."

I pinched my lower lip. Mama's jaw shook. "Just do me one favor, Elizabeth. Don't leave before the funeral."

"Of course not. Who do you think I am?"

But as always, Mama was walking away.