Going Home

Part 90

After lunch Grace and Josh strolled along the river with Margaret and Robert. As they made their way towards the Aquarium Grace and Margaret chatted easily together and slightly behind them Robert walked with Josh. Following a few minutes of silence Robert turned to Josh and asked “What are you and Grace up to this evening?”

Frowning, feeling wary, not sure what’s coming, Josh said “we haven’t got anything planned, why?”

Looking a little awkward Robert said “Um..if it’s alright could we come around later I’ve got something to give you.”

Still frowning Josh shrugged “I guess so but can’t you just give me what ever it is now?”

Robert looked down at his feet “no I think later would be best.”

Josh shrugged again “okay just come over whenever you’re ready.”

Smiling Robert looked at his son “thanks Josh, we’ll do that. Now where are we headed?”

Pointing to the building up a head Josh said “Grace said something about the Aquarium. I think Mum wants to have a look.”

“Ah okay” Robert nodded in acknowledgement. “Personally though, I’d prefer to view fish dangling on the end of a line rather than swimming past some glass.”

Looking quickly over at his father Josh wondered if Grace had said something. She said she wouldn’t but this just seemed too much of a coincidence following their last conversation. However watching his father it seemed to Josh that Robert wasn’t trying to make a point. He wasn’t even looking at him but was watching the passing boats on the river. Deciding to ask Grace later Josh said after a minute “I know what you mean.” Then pausing he added “I haven’t been fishing for years.”

Looking over at Josh’s sad expression Robert knew he meant since Gavin died and his own tone solemn he said “neither have I.”