Going Home

Part 40

As Robert stepped outside he saw Josh sitting on the veranda steps staring out at the night. Taking a seat next to him Robert hoped that by choosing a subject that matters to him he could draw him out and get him to talk. So, with caution, he broached a subject that was obviously close to Josh’s heart. “I like Grace” he said “your mother tells me she’s a police officer too.”

Without looking at his father Josh said “yeah we work together.”

“Well she seems a lovely person and she’s smart, I can tell that.”

“Yeah she is.”

“Have you been together long?”

“A couple of years.”

Looking straight ahead Robert said “well I’m glad you found each other. From what I can see you do a good job of making her happy.”

Turning his head at the unexpected praise Josh looked at his father’s profile for a minute then turning back and looking straight ahead again he said in a quiet voice “thanks.”

After a few minutes Josh broke the silence with a question “you’ve been sick?”

Shrugging Robert played down his recent illness. He was touched by Josh’s concern but he didn’t want his son to feel more guilt, he’d had enough of that to deal with as it was “It was a warning the doctor said and I’m doing my best to heed it.”

Frowning Josh said “do you have any help on the farm?”

Shrugging again Robert chose his words with care. He didn’t want to lie but he didn’t want Josh to worry either. “When I need it” he said.

Turning to look at his father Josh was not entirely sure he believed him but he didn’t feel able to push for answers yet. So standing he said “I’ll see if they’re finished.” Stepping away he headed back inside to find Grace.

As he watched Josh leave Robert sighed. He was disappointed Josh had brought their conversation to an end.

But for Josh things couldn’t be more different. Despite his abrupt departure Josh found for the first time that he was leaving a conversation with one of his parents feeling relaxed. For once he didn’t feel like he was been torn apart and all of a sudden his mood was lighter.