My fathers partner became my second mum
My mum passed away when I was only eight years old. Dad started drinking heavily, and there were times when we barely had anything to eat at home. I used to beg for food at school, my grades were poor, my clothes were shabby, and eventually the teachers took notice.
Social services inspectors came to our house a few times, and before long, my dad was given strict conditionsif he didnt follow them, he would lose custody of me. Luckily, something clicked for Dad; he stopped drinking, and the following inspections went smoothly.
Some time later, Dad told me he wanted me to meet a woman he liked. We went to see Aunt Mary, though I was hesitant about meeting her. Memories of my mum were still very fresh, and I wasnt keen on Dads decision to see anyone else, especially Aunt Mary.
But as soon as we started talking, I could immediately feel the warmth and kindness she had. I quickly became friends with her son, who was a year older than me, and we began to go to athletics club together. Dad was so glad I warmed to his new partner, and after a month, we moved in with Aunt Mary. We rented out our old flat to tenants for a bit of extra income.
Dad never got the chance to marry Aunt Maryhe was killed by a drunk driver. Officially, I wasnt related to Aunt Mary, so social services took me to a childrens home. As I was leaving, Aunt Mary promised she would have me back as soon as she could.
She kept her word, and after two months, I was back with her at her house. Those two months were enough for me to experience the harsh life of the orphanage. I am deeply grateful to Aunt Mary for not abandoning meshe truly became my second mum. She is a wonderful woman, and her son is a real brother to me.
Now we are both adults with families of our own, but Mum Mary is still the nearest and dearest person to both me and my brother. Twice a mother-in-law, shes never once argued with any of her new children, nor has she ever been called mother-in-law by us. Both my husband and my brothers wife call her Mother Mary for her kindness and understanding. And every time she hears someone call her that, genuine happiness shines in Marys eyes.
