Small Comfort
by Linda Schwartz

Caine returned to the small cottage that he shared with his wife and child. The funeral service had been a simple one, according to Laura's wishes.

"Oh Laura." he cried as he dropped down into the chair in the living room. He stared at the fireplace, he thought about all the things they would never share together.

This past year had been a difficult one. He remembered the day the doctor told them about Laura's illness.

"At best she has six months to live," he said dispassionately.

Laura had hung on for much longer, perhaps for Peter's sake. Peter! How would his son understand. He had turned 2 years old a few months ago. He was just getting to know his mother. The happy family would go to the park, where Peter would beg his mother to push him on the swings. Caine could still hear the laughter. He treasured those precious moments.

Caine moved to the bedroom and picked up the bottle of perfume which he had made for her. Opening it, he breathed in the Jasmine fragrance. He carefully placed the bottle back on the dresser, his hand slowly let go of it.

He sank onto the bed, his head buried in his hands. He could feel the tears running down his face, how could he go on without Laura. A terrible emptiness filled his being, his shoulders shook as he sobbed.

He felt a touch on his arm. He slowly raised his head. His gaze met the soft hazel eyes of his beautiful son. He heard the door close as Ping Hail left them alone.

"Fadder?" Peter touched his father's face.

"Peter." Studying his son's face, he could see so much of Laura in him. He realized he had to go on for Peter. It was what Laura would want. He ran his hands through Peter's hair.

"Fadder, what's wrong?" Caine saw a spark of fear in his son's eyes. He pulled Peter into an embrace and began to stroke his back, trying to comfort his son......and himself.

He could feel Peter wrap his small arms around his neck and squeeze him.

"I love you, Fadder."

"I love you, my son."

Caine carried his son into the kitchen to give him lunch. He didn't feel so empty anymore. Peter reminded him that he would always have a piece of Laura with him. She left him with the most precious gift.....his son.