Adam grabbed his schoolbag. 'Thanks, Mum!' he shouted, racing for the door.
Halfway down the path, he patted his pockets. His favourite lunchbox was gone!
He turned and ran back. His socks slipped on the kitchen tiles.
Mum stood at the kitchen door, holding up the blue lunchbox with its dented dinosaur.
He stopped. His hand flew to his empty pocket.
For the first time, Adam stopped and looked at Mum. He saw the tired lines around her eyes.
He whispered, 'Thank you, Mum.' Each word was slow and clear.
Mum's smile deepened. She ruffled his hair.
The next morning, Adam pulled out his chair and sat down.
He ate his porridge slowly, then looked up.
'Thank you for breakfast, Mum,' he said. She beamed.
The kitchen felt like a happy hug.