The Accident

THE ACCIDENT

“Mum, how much longer?”

         “Not long,” I lie.

         Traffic’s at a standstill. I should have taken an alternative route.

         “What’s the hold up?” I ask.

         “Mum, I’m bored.”

         Not as bored as me I want to scream. Instead I appease with promises of chocolate or crisps when we reach our destination.

         We inch forward. I allow my mind to travel to tropical climates and sun drenched beaches.

         “Mum, I need a wee.”

         Fantasy shattered; I feel like ramming my wheels into someone.

         Unloading, I smile at the checkout girl attempting to distract her attention from the puddle my son has left on the supermarket floor.