Out of tune

Today from https://lindaghill.com/2023/08/25/the-friday-reminder-and-prompt-for-socs-aug-26-2023/

‘Please Mummy can you stop singing,’ Helen’s daughter said, as the lullaby she was singing was out of tune.

Ever since a friend, when she was at school, told her she couldn’t sing, it was always way to high pitched. Although she loved singing along to the radio, it was better to be on her own, rather than in company.

Her face fell like a stone in a river.

‘Mummy, can you read me a story instead? I love the way you do the voices. Daddy doesn’t do it half as well as you.’

With a smile, she picked a book from the shelf; she loved this time of night, where she would read a story, and talk about their days. Although Tabitha’s stories were way more interesting. Working full time was difficult; the guilt followed her like the shadows in a wood. This was the only time they spent together and she wanted to make happy memories.

‘What about Paw Patrol, the one where Sky saves Chace?’

‘Yes please Mummy,’ she said, drinking her hot chocolate with a straw.

As the end page was read, her drink was finished, and eyes were drooping like a petal on a bud. She put the book on the side, and kissed her on the forehead. She hummed her favourite tune, but not loud enough for anyone to hear. ‘Hush little baby, don’t you cry, Mummy won’t sing you a lullaby. Goodnight Sweet Pea, love you, stay safe.’

‘Love you Mummy,’ she said, as the light was switched to dim.