Harry perched on the windowsill, gazing out onto the quiet street. He was waiting for his dad to come home. It had been two years now since his mum left them behind for a new familysomething his father had once explained, sadness etched in his voice. Why she left her son, nobody really knew. Harry didnt truly understand, but bit by bit, memories of her seemed to fade.
His dad did his utmost for him. At ten, Harry was considered old enough to know the truth: there was no point in shielding him from lifes realities. Hed learnt how to wash up and keep his room tidy. Toys didnt interest him much these days. He felt almost grown up, but the house felt lonely. He missed having a dog, though his dad had always refused.
Wholl look after it, Harry? Im at work all day, and youve got school. Youre still a kid.
Instead, his father brought home someone newa woman named Susan. She moved in and made herself at home. Harry kept his distance, barely speaking to her, deciding straight away that she didnt belong. Only his dad seemed happy, calling Susan his wife and hoping Harry would accept her as his mum.
I dont want her! Harry stated flatly, heading back to the windowsill. This became their routine. Harry watched his dad laughing and chatting with Susan, embracing her, but anger still churned inside him.
Dad, I want Susan to leave.
Harry, its not that simple. We all need a family. Lifes easier with a wife and mother around.
As the days grew warmer, Harry joined the neighbourhood boys running about outside. His friends whispered that his father and new mother might chuck him into foster care.
The idea terrified Harry. Why wouldnt they? They could have a baby together, and hed just be a nuisance. So he started preparing himselfready for any outcome.
One day, he overheard Susan murmuring, Hell be all right in foster care, we ought to send him there.
That was the last straw. Harry spent a sleepless night plotting to get rid of Susan. He started by acting upsalting her tea, leaving the cooker on for no reason. Mischief became his daily habit. Susan soon realised who was behind it and called him in to talk.
Harry, we should have a chat. You seem angry.
Im not bothered, he replied, trying to wriggle out of the conversation.
Harry, I promise Ive never wanted to hurt you, love…
Im not your love, Harry snapped back.
Weve rented a cottage for the summer, wanted to surprise you, Susan explained gently. Its time to tell you the truth. Your dad found a puppy, and were off to collect him today. Would you like to come?
No joke? Harrys eyes widened. He began to trust her, and before he knew it, he was hugging Susan as tight as he could.
Susan nearly wiped a tear away. There, you see? Everythings going to be all right. No need to cry, she said, smoothing Harrys hair.
After his dad returned from work, they all went to pick up a little pup together. Harrys anger melted into kindness; Susan was no longer an intruder. They reconciled. The puppy curled up peacefully in Harrys arms as he grinned. In that moment, Harry realised that happiness comes when you open your heart to others and give second chances.
