MARY POPPERS extract

© DrkFetyshNyghts 2022

 

"There y'go, all alone, shall we break out the drum and bass and the E's now, or wait a little bit?"

Mary was teasing Debra a little. And Debra always knew when she was doing this because she had that look on her face. One could question the appropriateness of such 'jokes' given what Debra had been through but, it was what it was.

"You know, I used to worry about them. I mean like really worry about them. They were both here when their father did it, you know, ended his life. That was the worse weekend ever. I don't know how we got through it. And yet looking back they seemed to cope better than me at it. I mean they grieved, of course they did. But where my life crumbled around me, they seemed to work through it you know. And I can see now that they are going to be ok."

And Debra stopped talking as though she was pondering her words.

"Kids are resilient Debra. They'll never forget their dad, but they will get on with life. For you it's different, that's why it's taken you longer to climb out of your pit. They'll be fine."

And Mary's words were soothing and kind. Her words and tone hit the spot with Debra because she broke down crying. There was this sense that Mary could find the right words at any given time.

"Look Debra, I know all this is still a bit raw for you, I can see that. You know, I wouldn't normally suggest this, but why not have a single glass of wine with me, just one, just to take the edge off?"

And there was this casualness to Mary's suggestion that seemed to make what she was saying right. It was only when one analysed what she was saying that the outrage would come through.

"Oh, you know Mary, I can't tell you how close to the edge I've been where I've almost reached for the bottle but I daren't, I just daren't."

And Debra let her words trail off, as though she were 'that close' to falling off the wagon. Mary snaked her hand across the dining table and touched Debra's.

"I know what you're saying Debra I really do. But just think about it that's all. It's just about taking the edge off - making it easier for you to cope. That's all. You don't need to do a week long binge. Just one glass that's all. Look why dont we go get the comfy seats and chill out a bit. I just want you to know I'm here for you always now, always."