Going Home

Part 101

After lunch Margaret felt like a little exercise so asking Josh to accompany her they headed off along the bank for a walk. But the bank was sloped and full of tree roots and rocks which made the going slow. And while navigating their way along involved picking the best path more than actual walking Margaret was just happy to be spending some time with her son. As they made their way along the bank Margaret tried to be careful and not to trip but the ground was so uneven she still managed to stumble a couple of times.

Watching his mother with concern as they walked along Josh was worried she was going to get hurt. After the third time she tripped where he only just saved her from falling flat on her face he said with impatience “for god sake mum hang on to me will ya?”

For Margaret this was a big moment. She had started to understand her son a bit more of late and even though Josh sounded angry she realised it was concern for her safety that was behind it. So disregarding the tone he used, and smiling to herself she looped her arm through his. She was pleased he cared enough to offer his help and without looking at him because she knew it would make him uncomfortable she said in a quiet voice, “thank you Josh.”

Josh looked down at her bent head as Margaret continued to watch where she was walking. As she wasn’t looking at him he smiled and replied “no worries.” He was appreciative of the fact that she didn’t make a big deal about it or take offence. Before their reunion Grace was the only person who was able to read him, to understand his motivations and he was not unhappy that it seemed now his mother could too.

 Trying to keep the grin off her face Margaret strolled along beside her son feeling very happy indeed.