Chapter sixteen
OFFICE LOVE NOTE: 16 YEARS EARLIER
“ Oh, darling. I love you so much. So much. You’ve made me so happy with this money. You’re the best, sweetie.” She wrapped her arms around him and smothered him with kisses.
“Thanks, Mum. I love you too.” He inched forward slowly. “Mum, I was wondering. The next time I get money from the paper round, can I buy myself some pencils and pens?”
His mother’s eyes turned a shade darker. “No, son. I need my medicine to make me feel better.”
In a quiet voice, he said, “Please, Mum. I promise I’ll be good.”
She pulled him towards her and caressed his hair. “Hmm. How about we make a trade, son?” She undid the buttons of her shirt. “How about you make mummy happy, and I’ll get you those pencils on your next paper out?”
The boy cowered. “But
