Robert is enjoying his day off when suddenly the doorbell rings. Who could be dropping by so early? When he opens the door, he sees a woman he doesnt recognise. She blinks nervously and wipes a tear from her cheek.
Who are you here to see? he asks.
Son, dont you recognise your mother?
Mother? Come in YOU! he manages to stammer out.
He remembers all too well the day his mother was taken from him. He waited years for her to visit him at the childrens home and take him back. She never came. Over time, the pain faded. Robert finished school, went to university, and started his own business. When people ask where his parents are, he tells them they passed away. Hes learned to live independently and only rely on himself. He’s confident, self-sufficient, and wealthy, never mentioning his upbringing in the childrens home.
Sarah cant even recall exactly when she lost parental rights. In her youth, she drank heavily, and in those drunken spells, her memory would blank out. She also served time in prison, where she often thought about Robert. No, she never truly loved himshe only felt pity.
When she gave birth to her second son, maternal feelings took over. She was ready to move mountains for her youngest. If she wasnt thinking about Robert, she devoted herself entirely to making sure the younger boy was happy.
The younger son grew up much like hertroubled. At 15, he received his first suspended sentence. Soon hed get another, and prison seemed inevitable. Now Sarah is desperate to protect him from jail, knowing firsthand what life behind bars is like. When she heard Robert was successful, she started searching for him.
Now, she sits in his home sobbing. She tells him how shes been searching for him, praying for his health, and hoping every day theyd meet. He believes her, but something inside him warns him to keep his distance. Despite his reservations, Robert rents her a flat, gives her money for the first time, and assures her she can count on his help. He decides hell watch her carefully and try to understand if her intentions are genuine.
Just before New Years, Robert visits the childrens home where he grew up. He often brings toys and food. An elderly care worker approaches him.
Robert, your mum was looking for your address. Did she find you?
Yes. Thanks for helping her.
But be careful, shes only trying to save her younger son. She just wants your money, dont trust her. She never loved you, and she never will.
I have a brother?
Yes. Ask her yourself.
A lump rises in Roberts throat, making it hard to breathe. He cant believe his mother has betrayed him again. He calms himself and goes to see her. Sarah is anxious, caught off guard by his questions. She doesnt want him to know about her younger son, fearing Robert wont help a criminal brother.
A few days later, Robert is attacked and beaten badly. The police discover the gang was hired by his own mother, who wants him dead to inherit his money and guarantee her youngest an easy life.
In court, she expresses remorse, begging Robert to forgive her, but hes decided.
Ive lived without a mother before, and Ill keep living without one! he whispers through tears.
