WARNING: This fictional story gives an indication that physical violence in the home is socially acceptable.

DA…DING… DONG…

Karen opened her door and let her son, Donald in. She could tell at a glance that he was very upset. As soon as she closed the door and turned to face him; he burst into tears, collapsing into his Mother's arms.

“Oh Momma, momma...” He sobbed. “Please help me..”
“Shh… What's the matter?” she asked, noting his black eye. “Where's Elaine?”
“At work” Donald answered between his sobs. “I can't be married to her! She is so mean. Look what she did to my face..”

“Tell me what happened” Karen ordered. Just now taking notice that he wasn't wearing any makeup, and looked like he'd thrown on a dress he'd probably worn a day or two before. “Did Elaine discipline you?” She asked him, her tone indicating he'd better tell his mother the truth!
“yes” he muttered as she lifted his chin, forcing him to look at his mother.

“Why?”

“And just how did you get here from clear across town young man?”
“I called a cab.” Donald muttered, almost unable to meet his mother's eyes.

“You mean to say, you took a taxi cab clear across town looking like this? What were you thinking young man?”
Tears started down donald's eyes again, knowing he'd made another big mistake. And it wasn't even noon yet.

Trying hard not to cry again, he sat down on the sofa as his mother went to make a phone call. A shiver ran down his spine as he realized who she was calling.

“Elaine will be here in about ½ an hour for you” Karen announced when she got off the phone. “She will deal with you when she gets you home. Just where did I go wrong? I know I raised you better than this ”

Not knowing what to say, and fully aware he was in even bigger trouble now, all donald could do was look down and rub the fabric of his dress between his fingers; knowing there was worse punishment in store for him now.