Observed

Written for https://lindaghill.com/2026/05/29/the-friday-reminder-and-prompt-for-socs-may-30-2026/

‘Prevention is better than cure; that’s what my mum always used to say. Although covering his knees in bubble wrap seems to be a little overprotective.’

Sarah observed her grandson, unsteady on his feet, toddle around the garden without fear. Each instance he fell over – pop, pop, and pop. Giggling, he lifted himself into a standing position.

A round paddling pool, filled with fresh water, a flash of colour to the green. The short strands of grass were like toy soldiers on parade.

‘Don’t want him to get hurt,’ Alison said.

‘Kids do, love. When you were his age, you had more grazed knees than most.’

‘Yea. I remember you ready with a plaster or ten, but he is only two.’

Alison couldn’t look away as Christopher followed a butterfly; as it picked up speed, so did her son. He barely had time to scream when she snatched him off the concrete.

She protected his legs, but his palms bore the scratches of childhood.

‘Mummy!’

‘It’s all going to be okay.’

Covered in dirt, hands were shaking. She wiped off the stray pieces of pavement. She kissed his dry skin, a magic Mummy kiss to make it all better. ‘Do you want a bikkie? I have your favourite.’

Christopher nodded and sat on the grass with a packet of chocolate biscuits.

‘Should have bubble wrapped his hands instead,’ Sarah said.

‘Then he would’ve probably fallen on his knees.’ Alison laughed.

His tears all but forgotten, he popped until plastic was flat against his skin.

‘Mummy, go play now. Please …’

‘Yes, but first let’s get rid of this.’

No longer dressed to impress, he tottered towards the pavement, his arms outstretched for balance.