Waiting For Lauren

Lauren was her world, and as she waited she thought of how she’d feel if, for some reason, that changed…

said, stretching out her arms, mirroring her favourite picture book.

“We don’t have arms long enough to show how much we love you,” I’d said.

Lauren always loved to hear that but on that occasion she seemed to take on the meaning of adoption more fully.

Then there was the time she had been bullied. That had been hard.

Lauren had put her arm against mine. The contrast between my pale arm and

We’d gone to the school of course, made a fuss. But in the end, it was

Lauren who resolved the issue by standing up to them. She had even earned their respect. Lauren could be one tough cookie when she wanted to be. But she was also vulnerable.

I looked out the window again.

Lauren was meeting her real mother for the first time. I don’t want her to get hurt. Or me for that matter. There, I’ve said it. I’m being selfish. I was thinking of my selfishness when I saw her car. My hands were cold. My stomach in knots.

“Mum! Mum!”

She breezed into the kitchen all smiles. “You’ll never guess. I have a little brother! Zee-Zee says that he’s five years younger than me…”

Zee-Zee, not mother. I made the tea as she prattled on. Then she stopped and looked at the table.

“Where’s your éclair?”

“I’ve eaten it.”

“I knew you would!” she said, before holding aloft a bakery bag. “Taa-daa!”

I’m touched at her thoughtfulness at a such an emotional time.

“Is this going to be one of our family meetings?”

“If you want it to be.”

“I do and I want to start by saying I love you Mum and that you will always be my mum, no matter what…”

BY MHAIRI GRANT

WEEK: SEPT 8 - SEPT 14, 2020

CAPRICORN

Your social life is non-existent these days and at work, just when you think everything is going your way, someone will drop a spanner in the works. Astro Tip: Don’t be pressured into anything.

AQUARIUS

You might suddenly remember you haven’t been in touch with someone after you promised you would contact them, or about a favour you promised. Astro Tip: Think about money-making ventures.

PISCES

Activities you choose to get involved in will be largely dictated by your mood of the moment. If you’re feeling low, it makes sense to relax and revive your energy.

Astro Tip: Stand up to a bully.

ARIES

Trust your instincts when it comes to work or important responsibilities. Don’t hold back suggestions because other people disagree.

Astro Tip: Acquire new skills to move forward.

TAURUS

If a romantic relationship has lost its sparkle, why not be the one to take the initiative? Make an effort to add a dash of excitement into your partnership.

Astro Tip: Act on impulse!

GEMINI

If you want to impress, you should volunteer for the tasks you do well. It isn’t the time to experiment with anything new. Astro Tip: Pastimes that keep you out of the limelight will suit you best.

CANCER

Plans and projects you thought were non-starters will get the green light soon. It will come as some relief to have people’s support.

Astro Tip: Be truthful and open in all your dealings.

LEO

Someone close will reveal they arranged something that should bring greater financial security to your shared lives. Try to show appreciation. Astro Tip: Don’t hesitate to go it alone.

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