Leading a double life ..

'I can't go to the concert next week, dad'. Jay dropped his gaze from his father's eyes. He was so incredibly uncomfortable, but had to now offer an explanation.

'But you were desperate to see that band. I moved heaven an' earth to source those tickets for you. Have you fallen out with yet another girlfriend? You do go through them like a dose of salts'.

Here we go ..

'Dad. I have to tell you something. WILL YOU STOP BANGING THOSE DISHES. Sit down, dad'.

Johnny was dumbstruck. How dare his 20 year old kid shout at him like that. He began to protest, then noticed his hansome, gentle son had welled up. Was that a tear in his blue eyes?

'What is it, son. What's bothering you. God sake, tell me. Are you ill?'.

Drying his hands on the dish towel, he knew he had to stop faffing and listen.

'Dad. I'm being admitted to a hospital'. Johnny stepped forward, arms outstretched. Jay backed away, hating that he was going to hurt this happy-go-lucky man. He wouldn't understand at all.

'No, let me finish. Please don't interupt. I have to go to a detox centre. On Monday. For a week'.

Johnny's mouth dropped open. He ran his hand through the little hair he had left. When he finally looked up, Jay had turned away, shame burning through his veins like a spreading fire.

'I use. Coke. Can't stop. Need help'.

Jay began to sob. His dad would disown him. They had been great chums, gotten closer since his mother's passing. His dad would be angry. He wanted to run out of the room. It had to be said, so he stayed, ready for the verbal assault.

Johnny got up. His movements were awkward, and Jay was awash with fear. Part of his problems, this anxiety business.

'Come here, son'.

With outstretched arms, he enveloped his only son in a protective, loving embrace, and held him close, while they shared this moment together.

Maybe things will be ok after all, Jay heard himself think ..