My Hero's Journey

I have to leave. My mother was in a car accident. She needs me. Doug understands and plans to drive to the gated community where my mom lives more than an hour away from our rented bungalow in Venice. He doesn’t mind the distance despite the 405 freeway being congested at all hours of the day and night. Thank god for books on tape. Moby Dick is his first choice, then Heart of Darkness, and spy thrillers. He has an obsession for espionage, and so do I.
I anticipate staying with her at Coto de Casa for a couple of weeks. Just time enough for me to go stir crazy in the quiet community where my parents lived for twelve years. Until, my dad had an affair with a neighbor. He met her on his morning walks along the horse trail. She was recently separated and lonely. My dad listened

He hands me a pass, and lifts the gate. After a congested freeway, I welcome the lush environment of tall grass and drought resistant plants on both sides of the unoccupied street. My mom’s door is open when I pull up into the driveway and park.
Even outside the house, the smell of burnt toast hits my nostrils. Sure enough, after hugs we mosey into the kitchen where I see her discarded breakfast in the sink. Scrambled eggs scorched in a fry pan and a blackened English muffin. My mom’s helplessness worries me. “I got distracted,” she says. “Everything’s a mess.”
“I’m here now.” I kiss her and offer to prepare breakfast. But first, I coax her into the shower and change into loose fitting clothes. Her hair hadn’t been washed for days or styled. Afterwards, we sit on the patio and eat English muffins and scrambled eggs. I ask for the details of her accident. She’s sketchy. Soon I lose patience, excuse myself and head out to my car. My cell phone is where I left it on the seat. I check for messages. There’s a text from Doug. “Are you there