Tina stretched and yawned as she walked into the kitchen, she was always tired these days. She found her mother sitting at the table sipping coffee and her daughter noisily banging a spoon on the table; spreading egg all over the floor and into her hair.

She poured herself a coffee and put bread into the toaster then walked over to her daughter, eased the spoon out of her chubby hand and said with a stern face Emee we dont play with food..

Emilys bottom lip quivered.

Tina turned away afraid shed give in too quickly and start hugging her soft-hearted daughter. She hated chastising Emily, knew each time she issued even the mildest rebuke that Emilys eyes would tear-up and her lip would tremble. Then a war would start deep within her, her responsibilities as a parent fighting with her own instincts which told her to sooth the hurt and injured, make it all better.

She wet a cloth, counted to ten then returned. Wiped Emilys hands and face, and picked the egg out of her hair. Now a suitable time had elapsed she leaned over, hugged her daughter and told her how much she loved her then she pulled her out of the chair and onto her lap.

Tina slowly chewed on her toast and watched her mother as she read the paper. She was relieved her mother was once again healthy. After two and half years of chemotherapy and a year of recovery her mother was now eating well and slowly resuming her life.

Tina realised as she looked across the table that she was no longer needed here, she was free to leave.

She opened her mouth but before she could say anything Amanda said Its OK..I know youre leaving..

How could you know? Tina said smiling Im only just working it out for myself..

Is it Bette? Amanda asked, aware that although Tina was healed in so many ways there was still this gaping wound in her heart that could only be filled with another adults love and trust.

Tina looked down at her daughter, rested her chin in Emilys curls and tried to tell her mother what she was feeling I need to see her..talk to her..