An Unexpected Gift

December,1999

It was a freezing and gloomy day when my parents died in a fatal car crash. I was just 7 at the time. As I had no relatives who were willing, or should I say able to take me under their care, I ended up in an orphanage. With my only relatives being an uncle with drinking issues and an aunt who just got by being a librarian, I didn't have much of a choice. I don't blame them, however. I don't think I would take some random kid (although technically my relative) and feed him off my money. And so I was handed off to Mr Frost with at least 20 more kids.

Really cramming 10 kids in a room and calling it “child care” is a scam. I mean do these bare, sad-looking empty spaces enclosed with 4 broken down and crumbling walls even count as rooms? Not to mention the leaky ceiling that constantly drips water from god knows where and lots of “friendly” rodents to keep us company. But at least it keeps us safe and warm in the winter, for which I am grateful. Mr Frost is not too bad himself. Sure he might have a bad temper and occasionally give us the “cane” but he genuinely meant no harm and tried to set us up with good foster families. While the younger ones had no problem getting chosen, I have been here for 5 years even though I arrived at the orphanage when I was 7. Mr Frost says “Life is like that sometimes” but I genuinely don't understand why people gloss over me. I mean I  am well-behaved and responsible, according to Mr Frost. Sometimes he even jokes that I was sent here, destined to be his apprentice. If that's true, it explains why I have not been picked all these years.

As the cold mist seeped  through the open window, I sat up in my bed, tangled in the blankets. I climbed down the bunk bed and dragged myself to the bathroom. No water came out of the taps as I turned one on to wash my face. Great, that old hog forgot to pay the water bill again. With hesitation, I dragged myself outdoors, where there was sure to be a rainwater-filled barrel. After a quick wash-up, I put on something warm and head out for a stroll. The streets were empty, but my heart was emptier. Today was my birthday, yet I had nothing to celebrate. I sat on the bench, lost in thought when an elderly couple approached me.

The man looked about 52 but the woman could've been 60 or 61. “Excuse me young lad, but could you show us the way to Mr Frost’s Foster care?” asked the old man. “Sure, follow me” I replied. I lead them up the lane and in through the shabby old fence gate. Perfect. Mr Frost had just come out to check his mail. “Here’s Mr Frost,” I say to the elderly couple. “Hello there, what can I do for you today?” said Mr Frost, putting on his best smile. “We were looking for a child to adopt. A well-behaved, mature and responsible one to be exact.” replied the lady. “Hmm… most of them are little rascals. Williams is a good lad. He is extremely responsible. And let's see…. Frankie over here is extremely nice too. He always helps me with the little ones.” Mr Frost said nodding towards me. “Yeah he looks like a decent lad” said the man. “I  like him,” said the woman. Even though the probabilities were low, I dared to hope that finally, my calling had come.

March, 2026

As I watch my kids playing in the lush green field, I can't help but remember that fateful day. The day Mr and Mrs Watkins took me into their humble abode. They cant even comprehend what they have done for me. They have given me a gift. The gift of love. The gift of being a part of a wonderful family. It was an unexpected gift. But really, it is the most unexpected of gifts, that are generally the best gifts of all.

Reviews

[Dara]

I am wondering if your story is autobiographical? How sad to lose both parents in a car crash and end up in an orphanage. The ending was certainly a happy one however. What a wonderful gift!