getting it right

Aidan took off most of the day to console his Dad. His mother wanted to be alone. It was emotionally draining because he couldn't find a solution his father was hoping for. One moment his father was saying it was all his fault about Henry. The next he was talking about how Henry would be punished, for running away. Aidan didn't think his Dad would go through with it. But he could see his dad was fed up and sick of the whole mess they were in.

"Dad's on antidepressants and Mom has to have something so she can sleep. We're all going to be on drugs before this is over." Aidan said later, so exhausted he doubted he could sleep, but at least he was in bed and so was Audrey.

"I think how Henry used to be. Last year, he was a totally different kid. He was so sweet. Always looked for the best in everyone. I want that Henry back." She hugged herself. Finally she let him put his arm around her.

"Its got me thinking," Audrey said. "I don't think I want kids. Not if..if this is what I have to look forward too. I must have made my parents so miserable. I never really knew..I did that..you know."

"I know." Aidan sighed. "We all make mistakes. Henry was bound to make some, but this is really taking it to the limit."

Aidan shut his eyes tight. He couldn't even remember the last time he prayed. Well, there were those times when his first marriage was on the rocks, and he wanted to do more, be more. But he guessed, he was wrong about that.

He prayed for his brother now. He hoped he was OK. He hoped their family would somehow find the good in this and not the worst. He knew he needed to pray for his father. His blood pressure was out of control.

He felt bad for his mother too. She seemed so out of it. He'd never seen her shut down like this.

Aidan really hoped Audrey changed her mind. He hoped they did have kids, even with rough times ahead.