Thicker Than Water

 

- Agnes Kimberley

HELLO, Ruth. How are you this morning?” Josephine Malane popped her head around her neighbour’s door.

Since Ruth’s husband, Lungelo, had passed away the year before Josephine had kept a watchful eye on her neighbour and friend.

“Oh good morning, Josephine,” Ruth turned around and smiled at her. “I was just trying to make myself a cup of coffee. Would you like some?”

“Yes, I’d love some,” Josephine replied. “I’ve just got the children off to school and haven’t managed to have a cup yet.”

Ruth smiled – Josephine had four children ranging in ages from six to 14 and she knew it was no easy task getting them up and out of the house in time for school.

“Sit down, Ruth. I’ll make the coffee and I’ve brought along some fresh scones and strawberry jam for us.”

This was Ruth’s favourite treat. “Did you make them yourself?”

“Well, if you count following the instructions on the back of the box then yes, I did make them. The children are always after snacks so now I’m an expert on all kinds of baking. I never knew these ready-mix things tasted so good.”

Ruth sat down with a weary sigh. Josephine watched her closely as she plugged in the kettle and set out plates, knives, mugs, milk and sugar.

“How are you feeling, Ruth?” she asked again.

“I’ve just got the usual aches and pains, but at my age they’re quite normal. It’s just old age creeping up on me.”

DESPITE the huge age difference Ruth and Josephine had become good friends over the years.

In many ways Ruth was a substitute mom for Josephine, as her own mother had died when she was very young.

They sat catching up on all the gossip, then Josephine washed the dishes and tidied up the kitchen.