Grandmother, Who Became My Salvation
When Mary Adams was just nineteen, she unexpectedly discovered she was expecting a child. She had never imagined that such a thing would happen, and certainly not after her very first experience of intimacy. At first, she couldnt even comprehend what was happening to her. By the time she understood, it was already too late to turn back.
Her parents couldnt bear the shame and cast her out of their home. Only her grandmother, Edith Wilson, showed true gentleness and wisdom.
Dont worry, my dear, Edith comforted her. If the Lord has given you a child, He will grant you the strength to raise him. Well manage, together.
Never once did Edith reprimand Mary, neither with words nor hints. On the contrary, she cared for Marys health, watched over her diet, and took her out for walks in the fresh English air.
When Marys healthy son was born, she named him Edward, after her grandfather, Ediths beloved husband.
With her great-grandsons arrival, Edith seemed younger, more energetic. She supported Mary in everything and, when Edward was old enough, gently encouraged Mary to return to work.
Dont fuss over us, my love, she would say with a soft smile. Were well. Young Edward is an absolute treasureso gentle and calm, eats heartily. Work with peace of mind; a few extra pounds will come in handy.
Years passed. Edward grew into a bright, kind and thoughtful boy. Both his mother and great-grandmother were immensely proud of himfirst at nursery, then at school.
In the evenings, the three of them delighted in sitting together, talking and listening as Edith reminisced about her youth.
On one such evening, as Edith recalled her childhood, schooling, and first love, Edward asked,
Gran, were you beautiful when you were young?
I never really knew Thats for others to say.
Do you have any photos?
Of course, Edith smiled. Let me fetch the old album.
She brought out a faded album shed never shown him before.
Look here, this is me in my last year of school. And this oneworking at the mill.
Gran, you were so pretty! Edward marvelled. And whos this man next to you?
Thats your great-great-grandfather, Edward James. He was a good man.
And this one? Edward turned the pages eagerly.
Thats my sonyour grandfather, Charles Edward.
Your son? Is hedid he pass away long ago?
Why would you think that? Edith frowned gently. No, hes alive and well.
I dont quite understand
Mary, who had been quietly looking at the long-forgotten photographs, slipped away. She couldnt find words to explain to her son why her parentshis own grandparentshad never forgiven their wayward daughter, and had never once looked upon their grandson.
Edith decided not to deceive the boy whod trusted her since he was small.
You see, my dear Sometimes the closest people become strangers. One day, Ill tell you why my son forgot he had a mother. But not tonight. I wont spoil our lovely evening.
All right, Gran, Edward replied, deftly changing the subject. But honestlydid you ever go dancing? I bet loads of lads fancied you!
Not at all, Edith smiled slyly. Not once did I attend the school ball. No one invited me. And besides, there were six of us at home, one little one after another. My parents were strict; we girls were kept firmly in hand. Dancing was just a dream for me.
Like Cinderella Edward mused.
Marys parents reappeared when Edward reached his final year at school. They came to see their grandson and to set their daughter straight.
By then, Edward understood everything. Edith had, gently and without blame, told him of what happened many years before.
Edward drew his own conclusions. He did not rush to embrace them or ask desperate questions. Instead, he became even more devoted to his mother, knowing he was all she had.
So, when the unexpected visitors entered the house, there was no emotional reunion. They were invited in, a pot of tea was brewed, and Ediths pies set out.
Well, shall we introduce ourselves, or will you tell your son who we are? Charles Edward asked, his tone dismissive.
I know who you are, Edward replied calmly, before his mother could speak. Youre my mothers parents. And you he nodded at the man, are my grandmothers son.
Not grandmother, but great-grandmother, corrected Marys mother. His only grandmother is me.
Edward regarded her coolly:
Im afraid youre mistaken, madam. I have one grandmother. One. Shes Edith Wilsonand shes dearly loved.
Blood alone doesnt make family, does it, Gran? he turned to Edith.
But Edith couldnt answerEdward was already rising to leave.
Well, I must go. Things to do. As for you, sort out whatever it is you came for.
He departed, leaving a heavy silence behind.
Lets go, Charles Edward said at length. Its too late for all this, as Id said from the start.
Wait, Edith stopped him. You have a wonderful grandson. Hes hurtand he has reason. Youre a grown man. If you desire to regain his trustdo your best. If not, well then, thats your choice.
He said nothing more and left. His wife followed.
The academic year ended. Edward passed all his exams with flying colours. Only one important event remainedhis school prom.
The evening before, Edward wore his new suit at a friends home, bought a splendid bouquet, and called at Ediths flat.
Edith hurried to the door and gasped. There stood a handsome, grown young man. He handed her the flowers and, in a dramatic gesture, knelt down.
My dear, beloved Gran I invite you to be my companion at the prom. Please say yes.
She offered him her hand. As he rose, he embraced the woman who had become his second mother.
