Abandonment

Abandonment

The Jones were thrilled when I joined them on their wedding day. I was a good servant and they, in turn, always remembered to include me on their day trips and exotic holidays abroad.

Two years later they had that knowing look as they were to about to become parents. I hoped they wouldn’t forget me when their firstborn arrived but I needn’t have worried. I was there at the birth and no-one could mistake their happiness and just how important I was to them.

Charlie was  a good baby and I remember Charlie’s first smile, his first tooth and his first wobbly steps. We all enjoyed trips to the seaside, the park and numerous family celebrations. I never felt like an outsider or left home alone but I know others who've missed out or were only remembered as an afterthought. It's  not nice to take second place when you know how critical a part you play in the family.

A year later the Jones decided to give Charlie a playmate and I felt honoured again to be present when their dear daughter, Sally made an appearance.

I cherished the thought of seeing the children growing up. I was always invited to their birthday parties, days out and holidays abroad.

I remember Sally's first ride on the helter skelter. She was sick as a dog and mad at me for peeking at her landing on the mat. I wasn't offended though and the rest of the day was full of  fun. Sally ended up with candy floss stuck to her face and Charlie took the steering wheel in the bumper cars, making his dad wear a funny scowl.

The kids seemed to shoot up before my eyes and started hanging round with their own friends. That's when the Jones kept forgetting about me and leaving me home alone. I never let them down once but  they decided I was to part company with them. I wasn’t good enough anymore. I’d seen this happen to others. One minute you’re the most important thing in their lives and the next you’re made redundant.

I’d always been full of energy, happy to oblige but now I wasn’t trendy, or fashionable any more. 

I was abandoned, bound for the car boot sale to be replaced by the latest Fujifilm X70!

385 Words