Conditional Reality

Babytalk Layercake was known in our town as a person of infinite serenity and generous benevolence. Visitors who were distressed became instantly relaxed in her presence. She loved cookies and would share her stash with anyone, no matter who they were or where they came from. People left her house swearing that Babytalk was some kind of holy healer. I went to her house one day. Babytalk told me to sit down. Let me tell you about my parents, she said. I curse them everyday for giving me this name. It makes me feel good. It really keeps me going.