Always forever | ✔️

Present

"Mum, can I ask you something?" I drink in the aroma of caramel slice.
"Sure, honey. Sit and we'll talk." She pats the island with her bulky hands she uses to whip together her baked goods.

"what's on your mind, boy."
"Well, ahhh.." I take a second to put together my words, "what would you do if you wanted to find out something buggering you, that you can't quite put a finger on?"

She considers this for a moment too long, pushing my tolerance to hang penuriously on the edge. I'm worried she knows a bit to much.

"Hon', if it's hurting you, take it by the neck and strangle it. If it's changing you, follow it and see where it leads- just keep one foot in reality. If it's intriguing you, look at it in the eyes and search deeper then you've ever questioned."

I open my mouth to speak, but she holds a hand up.

"I know you'll figure it out in your own, but please at least let me know what ever it is that has bothered you. You're lucky to have me."

I smile. A real smile. I haven't used one in a while. I go around the island to squeeze her in a tight brace.

"I sure am."