Chapter 22 - Mom’s apology
Mom apologized to Noah before Dad did.
Neutral park.
My presence.
No forced hug.
She said:
“I laughed when Emma teased you before your birthday.”
Noah nodded.
“I also defended her after she ruined the cake.”
“Yes.”
“I should have checked on you first.”
“Yes.”
Then:
“I said something mean to your mom about money.”
Noah looked at me.
“What?”
I said:
“Adult issue.”
Mom continued:
“I was angry at your mom and forgot that children were watching.”
Good.
Then Noah asked:
“Did you think I was a baby?”
Mom’s face fell.
“I thought your mom protected you too much.”
“Do you?”
She considered.
“Sometimes.”
Noah looked offended.
Then Mom added:
“But that is something I should discuss respectfully with your mom. Not use as permission to laugh when you’re hurt.”
Good.
Noah said:
“I still don’t like when people film me.”
“You don’t have to.”
Simple.
They got ice cream.
May you like
No dramatic absolution.
Grandmother and grandson resumed one scoop at a time.
