The Millennium Issue:
Future
Gabriel Constans
Home
Welcome
Contents
Contact Us
Join Our Mailing List
What's New
Site Map
Site Search
Transfusions
Michellé was about seventy and was in the hospital for a heart condition.
One evening, after I'd just changed her sheets, she grabbed my hand and begged me to sit down.
"Annalise, don't you ever put up with a man no good. Understand?" Her English was a little broken. "First time man cheat on you or tell you to do what, you say, See you later! You not worth ruin my life! OK?"
"OK." I giggled.
She put her other hand firmly on my shoulder and reiterated, "Mean it I. This not funny. Promise you not ever let man make sad you, take spirit away. OK?" Her hands trembled as she stared accusingly through my facade.
"OK. OK," I replied nervously. "I promise." I'd just turned eighteen, started nursing school and had no idea what she was talking about.
"I spend half my life living for man, not for self," she continued. "I hate to see young girl like you in same trap."
"I won't let it happen."
"Don't forget." She held my hand tightly. "Remember what Michellé say!Oui?"
"OK. OK. You get some sleep now." I stood up quickly and put the bedside table within her reach. "See you tomorrow." In order to dispel the uneasiness that had crawled inside, I told myself she was confused.
She died unexpectedly late that night. I forgot all about my promise.
~Gabriel Constans
Gabriel Constans has written for numerous journals, magazines, newspapers, radio and TV and has four books published in North America. Visit the website or email.
© 2000 by Gabriel Constans. All Rights Reserved.
© 2000-2002 by Cayuse Press. All Rights Reserved.
This page updated April 23, 2002.