Chapter 73: Clash of perspectives
The call connected, and David heard his mother’s warm voice through the line.
"Hello, sweetheart! How are you?" Tabitha asked, her tone brimming with love.
David smiled, even though she couldn’t see it. "Hey, Mom. I’m good."
"How are you coping, my boy? How’s everything going over there? And don’t lie to me—what have you been eating? Don’t tell me it’s just takeout!"
David chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his head. "No, it’s not just takeout," he replied awkwardly, avoiding elaboration.
Tabitha sighed but didn’t press further. "Hmm. Well, how’s home?" David asked, steering the conversation away from his questionable eating habits.
His mother hesitated for a moment. "It’s been tough, sweetheart. You know, with COVID, the shop’s been closed for a while. And being a nurse during all this hasn’t been easy. I’m one of the ones who didn’t stay in the office; I’ve been out there on the front lines."
David’s heart ached at her words, but Tabitha’s tone brightened as she added, "But thanks to my baby boy and the money you send back, we’ve been managing just fine. Thank you, love. You have no idea how much we appreciate you."
David’s throat tightened, and he swallowed hard. "It’s all fine, Mom. I wish I could do more for you and Dad."