Flash Fiction: Do Try

When the woman smiled, her teeth were individually perfect, but the smile overall was off-balance. “I prefer you call me mother-in-love.”

Tami’s throat tightened. Her neck stiffened, refusing to allow her head to nod politely of its own volition.

“Love my son like I do and we’ll get along just fine.”

Tami thought her breathing might stop entirely.
​
The woman’s smile disappeared. “Of course that’s impossible, but do try. You should try.”