A Forgotten Son

Nine-year-old Mani looked up at his mom; it had been almost a year since he had seen her and he had missed her dearly. She looked different. Why would she not look at him? He could not see her face, as she was looking at the floor. A tear escaped her eyes and fell on her lap."I'm not coming with you, am I?" he whispered softly."I am so sorry, Mani, I just need a little more time," she said, finally looking at him. "Mehdi will come around, and once I get everything settled, I am sure I can...""It's okay, Mom," he interrupted, surprised at the strength of his voice and the lack of emotion he felt. He was tired and had no more tears to give. Mani fell asleep on her lap.There is a note on the bed from his mom. He takes it and slips it in his pocket unread. He never thought he would be without his mom and felt betrayed. She had promised to come back and had left again, without him. Everything had changed, and his life would never be the same. The note lay forgotten in his pocket.