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Tom was upset. It was easier to focus on his feelings when I'd calmed myself down.
'He says you've always got enough money to buy new clothes when you want'.
I always get upset when I hear stuff like that back from his dad. But I found that if
I calm myself down, I can listen to him better. And, today I noticed he was really
upset. 'But you're afraid neither of us can pay?'
'Yeah sort of' 'What?'
Instead of getting wound up about Simon, I could see that Tom gets it. He knows money's
a problem for me. And, I guess he thinks it's probably a problem for his dad too. But it's
not Tom's problem is it? It's his Dad and me who've got the problem. So, we have to
work it out, not him. 'Sweetheart, would you just keep an ear out
for the baby monitor while I go and call your Dad?'
I'd normally do anything to avoid talking to Simon.
'Thanks Mum' But I don't want to see Tom upset if I can
help it. So, I just had to take a deep breath and do the right thing for my little boy.
When Jackie's number comes up on my phone I know I'm normally in for an ear bashing.
'Hello' But, that took me a bit by surprise. She seemed
all calm. She didn't try and put me under pressure like normal.
so, I suppose I reacted differently. 'Yeah, that sounds reasonable I guess'
I know I shout back if she shouts at me. But, this time, well, ended up different.
'Well, let me give it some thought, and I'll email you tonight okay?'
I know she loves Tom like I do. We both want him to get the right things. Why shouldn't
he be able to go on his trip? You know, we both want him to. So, we just have to work
out how. We're not stupid. If we both stop being stubborn for a second, we should be
able to crack on with this, you know? I'm pretty sure I'll go on the school trip.
Mum and Dad are going to sort it out.