Contents
Chapter 40: Annie
Overview
Annie recalls a quiet encounter with her estranged mother, Hattie Lee, at the Elektra bar shortly after Bobo left. Hattie Lee acknowledges Annie, cautions her that not everything can be fixed, and asks Annie to tell Granny she loves her. The brief visit deepens Annie’s motivations and grief.
Summary
Annie, working behind the bar at the Elektra as Mr. Wilson’s favored employee, spots her mother, Hattie Lee, seated quietly on a stool. It is about two weeks after Bobo left, and Annie initially wonders if she is seeing a ghost, as no one else seems to notice.
Prompted by Mr. Wilson to serve her, Annie takes Hattie Lee’s order for a Coca-Cola. Hattie Lee confirms Annie’s identity and explains she came only to lay eyes on her, having learned Annie was in Memphis from Isaiah and Sweet. When Annie says she is in Memphis “for you,” Hattie Lee gently warns that not everything can be fixed and that Annie will know the difference.
Finishing her drink, Hattie Lee leaves seventy-five cents in change and asks Annie to tell her own mother—Granny—that she loves her. Annie adds, “Me too,” as Hattie Lee walks away. The encounter leaves Annie holding warm coins and a deepened sense of longing, acceptance, and unresolved ties.
Who Appears
- AnnieBartender at the Elektra; meets her mother, seeks connection, and hears a warning about what can’t be fixed.
- Hattie LeeAnnie’s mother; quietly visits, shares a Coke, urges acceptance, and asks Annie to relay love to Granny.
- Mr. WilsonElektra’s manager; keeps Annie behind the bar and prompts her to serve Hattie Lee.
- BabydollAnnie’s colleague; passes by unaware of Hattie Lee’s presence.