Dark bits.

PIE

She served him pie she knew was ruined.

Then stood there, practically daring him to say something. She watched him choke down each dry, charred, mouthful. 

In barely a whisper,"i burnt it on purpose ."

over and over, like a cliched suburban mantra.

Her husband didn't hear her, but the boy did. He heard and remembered.

Years later, when his wife burned dinner, he was ready.