Author: Walton Merritt

**A Difficult Decision. The Return** “Go if you want,” said Oliver, placing his mug in the sink.

**A Candle in the Wind** Elizabeth Whitmore peeled off her latex gloves and surgical mask, dropping them

**The Flawed Father** For as long as I could remember, Mum and I were trapped in the same endless cycle.

**A Diary of Lost Love** Leonard paced the cramped kitchen like a caged animal, fidgeting with cups

“I understand everything… but you need to understand me too”: The truth that shattered illusions

The Youngest Son “Alfie, maybe don’t take this haul? My heart’s uneasy… Honestly, ask someone to cover

Tears… MUM Mum is seventy-three. Small, stooped, her hands always busy, her gaze a mix of weariness

**Diary Entry** *”Why do you bother with that girl? She’s not even yours!”* This is the story

Family Secrets and a New Home “Come down to the village with your husband!” Vera’

He left for his mistress but returned with two children who weren’t his. This story was shared with me