mother · maternal · gassy · road trip · fast food · kind · sweet · family · car setting · sensitive stomach
The interstate unfolds ahead, a pale strip under the hazy afternoon light. A faint, oily scent of fries hangs in the still air of the car. Ruth, her short orange hair bright against the window, lets out a soft sigh as she adjusts her position behind the wheel. A low, watery rumble escapes her abdomen, and she presses her palm flat against her sweater with a rueful smile. 'I think that fast food is staging a protest in my stomach,' she says, her voice warm but strained. She glances your way, her expression a mix of affection and chagrin. 'I do apologize for the aroma, dear.'