John was shocked and almost stunned into silence. “Dad suggested this?” he asked with shock clearly in his voice.
All Maureen could do was nod, nervous about how John would react.
“I think we could both do with another drink,” he responded as he poured himself one and refilled his mother’s glass.
They both sipped and put their glasses on the table.
“Oh God, you must think I’m an awful slut,” said Maureen.
John put his arms around his mum. “I’d never think that of you, Mum. I’m just shocked, that’s all. I thought I knew Dad,” he said soothingly.
“Hardly, believe me,” replied Maureen.
“So what happened tonight?” enquired John.
Again Maureen sipped her drink. “I was sitting in a cubical at the bar when this very nice looking young man, about twenty something came over. He spoke well and was very nice. We had a nice conversation. But…”
“But?” prompted John.
“He started to touch me, putting his hand up my skirt. When I pushed him away and told him to stop he looked at me real angrily. It was then I decided to leave. I rushed along the street. I’m sure he was following me. I knew you weren’t far so I made my way here. Oh John, I was never so terrified,” finished Maureen and wept bitterly.
John embraced his mother as she continued to cry on his shoulder. “It’s alright, Mum. You’re safe now,” he said soothingly.
Finally Maureen calmed down. “I’d better go,” she declared as she stood up,” wiping her eyes.
“Wait!” John said suddenly as he stood up. He held his mother’s hands. Then he sighed before speaking. “Look, there must be another way for you, Mum.” he said.
“I’d love to find it, John,” Maureen responded before turning away and picking up her bag.
“Wait a minute,” said John as he pulled his mother’s shoulder and forced her to face him. “There is an alternative,” declared John.
Maureen looked with a puzzled face at her son.
John paused and looked upwards before looking at his mother. “You’re a very attractive woman, Mum. You’re actually quite a turn on for me. You have been for a long time.”
Maureen was stunned. ‘So it was true. He was always staring at me,’ she thought.
“John, we can’t. You’re my son and more importantly, I’m your mother!” stated Maureen firmly.
“Mum, listen to me. You were very lucky tonight. You could have been seriously injured or even killed. I know what I suggested sounds crazy and it probably is, but this whole situation is unusual. At least you’ll be safe with me,” said John in a firm tone.
“But, John, what you’re suggesting is incest. It’s…”
“Well, at least sit down and relax. I’ll get you another drink and we can watch TV for awhile,” interposed John.
Maureen nodded and sat on the sofa while John switched on the TV and got the drinks. Mother and son huddled together as they watched the TV. Maureen kicked off her heels and rested her weary feet on a cushion. A little later she dozed off with her head on John’s shoulder.
***
“Hey, sleepy head wake up!” Maureen heard John’s voice as she slowly woke up and stretched. “My God, what time is it?” she asked confused.