Going Home

Part 87

Thinking for a minute Margaret looked out at the night as she remembered her youngest son. “Gavin was different to Josh in many ways. But that didn’t mean he didn’t want to be exactly like his big brother. He idolised Josh and wanted to do everything Josh did. But really he was quieter and more introverted. Josh was full of charm and very out going when he was younger. He was always smiling and had a wicked sense of humour. And whereas Josh was always moving about the property riding or on a motor bike Gavin was happy working with the animals. Josh also excelled at anything he tried. But for Gavin it was different he had to work hard to be good at the things Josh did with ease. But their differences never affected their relationship. There was no jealousy and Josh was always happy to help Gavin succeed.” Margaret smiled as she recalled what her boys were like as kids and adolescents.

She continued “but in other ways they were very similar. They were both intensely loyal and were not boys others wanted to cross. They knew how to stand up for themselves and for each other. And there were activities they both enjoyed. We’d spend part of each summer at Lake Eildon and the boys both loved to fish.” Smiling Margaret remembered the friendly competition between them as to who would catch the most fish. Then remembering something else she said “they also both loved to snow ski. We took them up to the snow every winter and they were really quite good, in fact if anything Gavin was probably better than Josh. That was probably one of the few physical activities he did better than his older brother, not that Josh would ever admit it.” Remembering those winter holidays Margaret smiled for a second then her expression going somber she turned to Grace “is that the sort of thing you wanted to know? I’m not sure if I’ve helped any.”

Thoughtful, Grace said “no Margaret that was perfect.”  She didn’t know how yet but Grace was certain there was something in what Margaret told her that she could use to help Josh.

Then putting it aside until later Grace changed the subject “Josh and I thought we’d have lunch along the river somewhere tomorrow and then walk down past the casino. Is there anything special you’d like to do afterwards?”

Smiling Margaret said “that sounds perfect, although I would like to see the Aquarium.”

“Well that’s easy” Grace said “the Aquarium is right near where we’ll be. What about Robert do you know if there’s something he particularly like to see?”

“I have no idea I think he’ll just be happy to spend time with you and Josh.”