[Her lips tighten imperceptibly, irritation rising like the stifling pressure of summer heat, but just as quickly smothered with another maternal gesture, her hand laying delicately on his shoulder. There is an understated firmness there, when she leans into him with the sway of her skirt, her weight resting against his solid build.]

I think, [A light stress on the word, her head dipping slightly, curls of red hair splayed across the white of his shirt.] you should think about the future. Tommy needs his father to set a good example, and you have friends that are looking to you.

It'll be just you and me, again. [Beloved son and caring mother, a whole, happy family. As it should be, as it should have always been. There is no one who knows him as well as she, who dotes after him with as much tender care, and who nurses him back to his full glory when he is laid so low.]

That wouldn't be so bad, would it?