My father never laid eyes on me. He disappeared when Mom told him she wouldn't have an abortion. Growing up with a mom who worked part time had advantages and drawbacks. The major advantage: She spent a lot of time with me. The main drawback: We barely scraped to cover our expenses.
When I was in high school, she could leave me alone and added to her workload. Three mornings a week, she was a receptionist at a dental place, and three evenings, she worked as a waitress at the local Applebee.
When I was a senior in high school, Mom registered with a nearby health club. She tried to exercise and swim each time I was not at home.
The following year, I got accepted to the state college, and due to our financial situation, my tuition was free.
Everything went according to plan but then came Covid.
...
Mom and I got the shots and were strict about masking. However, everything changed once public gatherings were discouraged and facilities closed. Most importantly, the health club Mom frequented closed its doors.
To explain her problem, I had to describe her. She was 41, 5'3", 125 pounds with black hair, brown skin, and a massive chest with DD cup breasts. The huge breasts were responsible for her frequent low back pains. As long as the health club accommodated her, the combination of specialty exercises and swimming relieved her suffering. Now, that it wasn't available, she didn't complain, but I could see it in her eyes and noticed her trying to lie down on her tummy. Our money dwindled too: she switched to become an online receptionist using our computer, but the number of patients decreased. And Applebee had new limitations on the number of clients it was allowed to let in.
...
One day, I saw her struggling more than before and said, "I love you and see you suffer. You hate painkillers, and the sports facility is closed. I can help you with a back rub."
She sighed, "Honey, I detest burdening others with my issues more than I wish to relieve my pains."
I pointed a finger at her, "Listen to me, lady. I was born because you preferred me over your husband. And you did a lot for me growing up. You know what, actually, I am doing it for myself; for a change, I will be doing SOMETHING useful here."
She grinned, "Lucas, after 21 years together, I know you better than you think. You are a bad liar. You want to do it for me, and everything else you mentioned is pure BS."
I whined, "Even Mom doesn't believe me anymore. I think it's time for me to move to another country where Covid does not exist. How about North Korea?"
She laughed, "You are funny. OK, let's try a little back massage. But promise me that you'll stop when you are tired and won't burden yourself too much on my behalf."
"I am in good shape, and it is highly likely I'll survive a back massage. However, when I start, I'll leave the phone nearby, so you can call 911 if see me having a heart attack..."
"Honey, stop mocking your mother, or I'll beat you up."
I am 6'0", and 180 pounds of pure muscle. Mom is shorter than me by a head and never hit me all my life. I couldn't stop laughing and hugged her, "Mom, please, PLEASE, do not hit me... I am scared."
Mom smiled, "Oh, shut up. Bring the avocado oil from the bathroom cabinet and let's see what you can do."
...
"Mom, lower your top, unclasp the bra, and lie down on your abdomen. I'll be back in 5 with the oil and a couple of towels."
When I returned, she was topless on her tummy with her back exposed all the way to the top of her butt. I poured oil on my palms to warm it and, a moment later, began applying it to her lower back. I remembered reading somewhere about 'knots,' but I recognized none.
I started rubbing her muscles circularly, just to let her get used to my touch. And then, gradually, I moved up and down on her lower back, following the direction of the muscles. After a few moments, I heard her moan and she mumbled, "It feels so much better already. I don't know if it's the oil or the massage but my pains are much better. Honey, your hands are magical!"
I grinned, "Since I was so good, I want 2 things: 1. Stop complaining when I offer another massage. 2. I deserve another piece of your tasty chocolate cake."
She laughed and didn't answer.
I continued rubbing, taking my time and ensuring to go from her shoulders to the small of her back. I stopped after 20 minutes, hearing her groans turn louder. I placed a large soft towel on her back and went to the bathroom to wash my hands. When I was back, Mom had a robe wrapped around her and she looked happy, "My back feels like new again. It feels so much better than after taking the stupid pills."
"Good. So, from now on, you get a massage at least 3 times a week."
"Honey, I don't want you to strain..."
I interrupted her, "Mom, you talk too much. First, I am the man of the house so I decide. Second, I suspect your objection has nothing to do with me working hard on your back. You are trying to prevent me from eating extra cake."
She smiled, "You are so right. Let's compromise: I'll ask you for a massage when my pains become intolerable."
"No way, Jose! If I let YOU make the decision, I'll get the next request before you die. As I said, 3 times a week. Take it or leave my house..."
Her eyes glistened, "My son is becoming bossy. Who am I going to call for help?"
"Me. ME!"
...