Chapter Seven

Summary

• The narrator hears their mother complaining about the cost of a cab, accusing the driver of being a thief.
• The narrator observes their mother's appearance and notes changes, such as her hair being cut into tight coils and her tan from spending time in Ghana.
• Mum's diet in Ghana is mentioned as being healthier, contributing to her flawless skin.
• Upon reuniting, the mother and the narrator hug, and the mother's scent of cocoa butter and perfume is noted.
• The mother is interested in the narrator's work and her own luggage upon arrival.
• The mother interacts briefly with her husband, asking after his well-being before moving on quickly.
• The mother has a lot of energy, which makes the narrator restless and aware that their own routine will be disrupted by her presence.
• Mum prepares food from the fridge, ensuring there's a meal ready despite it not being the father's dinnertime yet.
• The narrator notices that their father's behavior hasn't changed since the morning, raising questions about his awareness of his wife's return.
• There's a text conversation between siblings James and Maddie about their mother's return and the implications for their dad with the narrator's planned move-out.
• James expresses reluctance to take over the narrator's role caring for their dad, who is the narrator's favorite.