Member-only story
Society and a Middle-Aged Woman Meet at a Diner
And have an honest conversation
SOCIETY is already seated when MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN (MAW) enters the diner. Society watches her approach and sit down.
SOCIETY: I’m pleased we’re doing this. I know you’ve been wanting to get something off your chest, and —Yes, it is a bit of a crepey situation, isn’t it.
MAW: Sorry?
SOCIETY: (reaching across the table to poke her décolletage) See, there, how it dimples? It should cave. But don’t panic! You came to me for a reason, and I’m here to help.
MAW: But —
SOCIETY: Famous women over 50 advertising skin serums show that very, very, very bright light exposure on the face erases visible wrinkles, pores, and flesh while emphasizing that you do still have a mouth, nostrils, and irises.
MAW: That wasn’t what I …Thank you, but I — It’s… I’ve been feeling lost, is the thing. I’m almost 50 — Not almost-almost, but closer to 50 than 40, anyway, and — (to server) Coffee, please. Two sugars.
SOCIETY: Tch! If you want to look even remotely young at 50, you won’t want annny of that sugar. Nonono.
MAW: Oh? But that’s — (to server) Excuse me…Thanks, sorry. I’ll still want the sugars when you bring the coffee, please…
