A Lead

Alex woke up the next day inside the living room on the couch. He sat up abruptly and looked around, his eyes searching for his mother.

And he found her in the kitchen, making breakfast with not a care in the world like she hadn't nearly died yesterday. But the sight of his mother standing in the kitchen and making pancakes, warmed Alex's heart.

The guilt was still there.

Alex stood up and walked towards the kitchen, "Mom. " He said in a quiet voice as he walked towards her.

Maria turned to him and smiled. "Oh, you're awake. Wait for a bit. Breakfast is nearly ready. " She said.

Alex almost choked but controlled himself. He tried not to let his tears fall as he approached her and hugged her tightly. Her small body nestled within his grasp. "Oh. "Maria let out a surprised gasp but her gaze softened as she watched Alex hold back his tears. She ruffled his hair and said, "It's all okay now. You don't have to worry. "