Page 37 of Family Affair
He silently repeated his mantra to stay the hell away from his father’s problems and his mother’s intrigues. He should walk away. He resented the blood ties that securely shackled him, mocking his proclamation about making choices. At times like this, he wanted to be an orphan.
“I sure ashellwon’t make Ward disappear, but I’ll think about what can be done. And I’m not making any promises, Mother.”
She looked at him through watery tears. In this moment of weakness she failed to properly shield her expression, and a potent mixture of hope, resentment, and regret shone clear as sunlight from her pale eyes.
He could bear it no more. He stood up, indicating that their visit was over. She followed his suit and rose shakily, tightening her light cardigan around her. “I wish I had your raw power,” she complained bitterly, “your life experiences.”
“You don’t want to have my experiences, Mother. Trust me.”
She left without saying goodnight.
He closed the door with care and walked to stand at the window and stare into the darkness. It started raining again. Light, misty rain with tiny drops hung suspended in the hot air. He stood there for a long time, absorbing the quiet of the night.
He had tried to stay away from trouble, to avoid troublesome people. He wanted to be left alone. He craved peace.
Andalways, peaceeluded him.
