A Bit Off

It had been quite a morning for Travis he and Kyle had returned from the hut to see O’Brien’s Garage’s truck pulling out of the drive. His father came over to him, "you all right Travis, looking a little pale?"

Travis smiled, "I feel a little pale Dad and I think I need a cup of coffee, join me?"

"I would but I don’t want to miss that load of shavings being brought in for the calves’ bedding." He grinned, "I think your mum wants to see you anyway."

Travis rounded his eyes and grinned. He found his mother inside setting the table for lunch.

"Hey Mum," he said giving her a kiss on the cheek."

"I wondered when you might come in and tell me what’s going on…I saw the police were here, garage truck was here and I’ve not been allowed around the guest house."

It’s a nasty business Mum, looks like Sweeny might be involved in a murder, I…I’m awfully sorry I brought him out here." Travis sat down in a chair.

"Travis darling, I’m sure you didn’t know what kind of a man he was…don’t blame yourself…I know how you get sometimes."

"That’s easier said than done. Jan’s coming tonight with Tee." He watched her face.

Sarah McGee managed a smile for Tee, "I can’t wait to meet him Travis, I feel so sorry for the boy. To think I had a grandson for eleven years and never knew."

"Yeah…a real shame that. He’s a good kid, needs some work though." Travis absently picked up a fork and played with it, "he’s gonna need some love and attention I don’t think he’s had much of that in his life."

"Your Dad and I have all the time in the world for him, he’ll be fine here with us…you don’t have to worry about him Travis."

"Well that’s where you’re off a bit Mum, I intend to make him part of my life…I’m not going to dump him off here and go about my business. I’ll be responsible for him."

"But…you’ll be in Sydney."

"Off again…I intend to live here…and God willing…with Jan." He watched her go still. "I love her Mum and this time…nothing is going to stand in my way."