Through Thick and Thin
Elaine became a widow early, at just forty-two. By then, her daughter, Emily, had married a nice lad from the neighbouring village and moved up north with her new husband, hoping to earn some decent money.
Now and then, Emily would ring her mum, reassuring her not to worry, that everything had worked out: new friends, a steady job, good in-laws. During these calls, Elaine felt acutely how distant her daughter had become. She was like a piece sliced right off.
Work in the village dried up. The only school where Elaine had been helping out in the kitchen was shut down.
Without a job, Elaine didnt get disheartened. She started taking the bus into the next village twice a week, selling milk and cottage cheese to her regulars.
The money she made just about kept her afloat, and honestly, Elaine couldnt complain. She lived alone, ate her own milk and cheese, and the veg she grew herself.
There was barely time to feel lonely, not with an entire yard filled with chickens, geese, ducks, and old Bess, the cow, lowing from the cowshed. Her cat, Daisy, constantly wound around her legs. By the time everyone was fed, given grain or hay, and the pens cleaned, the day was gone.
Every afternoon, usually after lunch, Elaine would settle onto a little stool by the window and gaze out at the countryside.
And what a view calm silver birches stretching into the sky.
Beyond the birches, a spring bubbled out from the ground with cold, crystal water, running into a small lakeso beautiful that the sight never got old.
One morning, Elaine was woken by a racket outsidetrucks and machines were parking near her house.
Yawning, she pulled on her old flannel housecoather mothersand headed out to the porch.
She craned her neck to see a group of people surveying the area, chatting amongst themselves. She approached one of the men, dapper in a smart overcoat.
Good morning, she called. Any chance you could let me know whats going on?
The man sized her up and glanced at her home. You live here, do you? I just bought the field here and plan to build myself a house. Looks like well be neighbours.
Neighbours? Elaine echoed.
Back inside, she was all in a daze. She had to find out who her new neighbour was. So she quickly changed and headed to the village shop.
The ever-chatty shop assistant, Maggie, already knew what was going on.
A rich chaps bought the plot next to yours, Maggie whispered. Says hes building a house for his twin brother. The poor blokes not welldoctors reckon country living will do him good. You know what its like hereclean air, woods, healing springs.
Elaine pondered this. Well, its a good thing. Maybe hell get attached to the place and even open up shop. We could do with more jobs.
Maggie burst out laughing. You do dream, you do.
On her way out, Elaine bumped into Clive, the village bread deliveryman, arms full of fresh loaves.
Morning, Elaine. Mind holding the door for me? he asked.
Of course, she replied with a grin.
Clive paused and looked at her, Youre in a hurry. Take a loaf, just out the oven.
Elaine blushed and grabbed one. Maggie, pop that on my tab, Ill pay you later!
It was awkwardClive had been sweet on Elaine for years, though she always ran a mile whenever he got close.
He was six years younger, and some folks had joked that she was too old for him. Elaine had forced herself to stop thinking of Clive. Best he found someone his own age.
But Clive never married, instead always stealing glances at Elaine, quietly hoping.
***
The new house went up in no time.
Once the grand place was built and its windows glowed in the night, Elaine set off to call in and introduce herself.
She opened the shiny new door, stepping in with a tray of apple tart.
Hello! Morning, neighbours! she called.
The scent of fresh wood and paint hung in the air. Elaine lingered in the hall, clutching her tart.
Two men and a couple of women, all in overalls, emerged.
Can we help you? one of the women asked.
Im your neighbour, I live just over there. Thought Id bring you some of my apple tart, Elaine said, handing over the tray.
Thank you, the woman replied, accepting it.
I just wondered, Elaine continued, if youve any work going? I can wallpaper, plasteranything really. No?
One of the workmen shook his head. Doubt it. The contractors got a big team in for the inside work. Best ask the owner, hell be here in a few days.
Oh, right. Well, Ill be off then, Elaine said, disappointed.
Elaine returned home and glanced around at her old house. It could do with fixing up, but she doubted itd help muchher home was growing shabby, moss creeping up its walls.
Worse, Elaine felt unwanted by these new neighbours.
Back in her day, if someone was building or moving in, theyd always pop round to meet the locals first thing.
But not this lot. The owner hadnt even said hello in all the months of building. Odd chap.
***
Things changed, though. First, the new neighbours lit up their house with Christmas fairy lights, and then the residents moved in.
Elaine watched from her window as lorries delivered furniture and boxes.
A young woman, wrapped up in a posh pale coat, strode confidently into the house.
Would you look at her, Elaine thought. Must be some beauty queen to have landed a house built by a businessman.
She never caught sight of the brother who was supposed to be sickthe one Maggie had mentioned. He never left the house, only the young woman was spotted heading to the shop once a week.
Elaine tried several times to chat with her, smiling and greeting her. But the neighbour would purse her lips, mumble a stiff hello and scurry off.
It stung. Guess she considers herself above me, thought Elaine sadly.
A year passed. Elaine stopped bothering with the neighbours entirely. Once a week, a fancy car would stop at the house, a well-dressed man would take bags inside.
Then one day, a surprise.
There was a knock at the doorher neighbour.
Ive noticed youve got a cow, hens, the lot. Would you sell me some meat? Ill pay. And Id love to buy butter, cream and potatoes, too, if youve any going.
Of course, Elaine perked up, offering her a seat while she scavenged the larder. Theyd only just butchered a steer, so there was beef in the freezer.
The meats fresh, it wont take too long to cook.
How long does it need? the woman asked quietly.
An hour and a half, love.
So long?
Sometimes it takes longer. Are you not used to different cuts? No matter, I can help.
But what if Id rather fry it? I dont want to boil it, the guest admitted, puzzled.
You can fry it.
I dont know howIll only burn it, most likely. Would you be able to cook it for me, with some spuds, and I could collect it ready to eat?
Elaine studied her; she looked so young. Her pretty face was blank, her dainty hands, polished nails, clearly unused to chores.
Do you actuallyknow how to cook? Elaine inquired.
Well, of course not.
Whats your name?
Sophie. And you?
Im Elaine, but you can call me Ellie. Id be happy to make lunches and dinners for you, a small fees all Id ask.
Id love that! When can you come over?
Right now, if youd like.
Brilliantcome, Ill show you around.
Elaine packed everything up and, locking her door, headed over.
Neighbours House
The place took her breath awaytasteful, expensive, with brand-new furnishings.
On the sofa, a brooding man sat reading. He shot Elaine a scowl. Whos this? Something up?
Elaine was shocked. Shed expected Sophies peer, but he looked about forty-five.
Sophie beamed at him, Darling, meet Elaine, our new helpershell be cooking for us.
Elaine added, Actually, Im your next-door neighbour. Pleased to meet you.
Hmph, was all he said, barely glancing at her.
Sophie ushered Elaine to the kitchen, Right, lets get on with lunch.
Elaine found the familiarity jarring, but got to work, hands washed, ingredients sorted.
An hour later, beef and potatoes were steaming on plates.
And so, Elaine found the job shed hoped for.
The owner, stony Alex, paid her wages once a week. Over time, he thawed, thanks to Elaines delicious food.
Elaine noticed the house was never really tidy; Sophie didnt seem to lift a finger, and bedding and floors were always in a state.
Elaine soon grabbed a mop and cleaned top to bottom.
She caught Sophie pouting, and Alex scowled, Who said you could start cleaning? Didnt ask for that. If you expect extra pay for this, youre out of luck. Im only paying for meals. And food.
Alright
Elaine finished up, slightly hurt. Soon she noticed the brother whod funded the house stopped coming, and Sophie had stopped shopping. Sophie became a bit short, too.
Finally, Sophie said, Dont do the washing up. Ill sort it. And no more meat. Well buy only potatoes, eggs, and milkjust cook those.
Elaine looked at Sophies sour face. Is something wrong?
Sophie snapped, Of course! Im sick of the countryside! No shopping centres, no cafes, nowhere to go!
A few days later, out of routine, Elaine called at the house and found the door unlocked. Inside, absolute chaos: things strewn everywhere, candles and trinkets galore smashed in the front room.
Oh, what on earth Elaine called out.
No Sophie here, a voice answered from the kitchen.
Elaine found Alex surrounded by mess, empty bottles lining the table.
What happened, Alex? Did you and Sophie argue?
Dont mention her, he grumbled. Shes gone. Left me a notevillage life wasnt for her.
The man gave a heavy sigh. Ellie, could you bring me some beef? I know youve got some. Fry it for me, will you?
Alright, Ill fetch some.
She hurried off, got the beef, and started cooking.
While the food was on, she tidied the kitchen and sitting room.
The smell of frying beef roused Alex. He came to the stove, eating straight from the frying pan with a knife.
Alex! Dont eat like that. Sit down, Ill plate it for you.
He sat, saying, Youre something else, Ellie. I adore you.
Elaine frozeshe couldnt remember when shed last felt like a woman, last heard words like that.
Dont go anywhere. Sit with me, share a drink.
I dont drink.
She could see he was tipsy and knew she should leave, but suddenly Alex pulled her close, enveloping her in his arms.
I never realised you were so interesting, Elaine, he murmured.
Married Life
Elaine could feel the village gossip everytime she went into the shop. No one dared ask questions, but whispers always followed her.
Only Maggie, the shopkeeper, gave her a sly grin.
Ellie, who are those cigarettes and fancy sausages for? You never eat that.
For the neighbour, who else? I told you, Im working for him.
Maggie leaned over, voice low. When did you start staying over there, then? And eating with him every night? Dont be daft, Ellie. Hes only after what he can get. Hell get bored and move on.
Elaine stiffened, filled her bag, and snapped, I think youve said quite enough. Give me my change, and quickly.
Not looking at her old friend, she snatched her change and left.
She was fuming inside. People really are vile. Cant mind their own business.
Outside, Elaine nearly tripped as she passed Clive, his arms filled with bread.
This time, she didnt offer to help, nor did he ask. He gave a sour grunt and managed the door himself.
Hmphhes fallen in with the others, Elaine thought with a stab of sadness.
She missed the way Clive had once blushed at the sight of her, how her heart had soared.
Now, he avoided her, and the silence hurt.
***
She turned into her lane, but instead of home, she went to Alexs place.
Hed said soon theyd be married and the fancy house would be hers as well.
She was already getting used to keeping house there. The only trouble was that each morning, she still had to pop back to her old place to stoke the fire and feed what few animals remained.
But it was only for the time beingAlex promised to build a new pen and bring over whatever animals she had.
***
Alex kept his worda taxi took them to the registry office. He slipped a gold ring on her finger.
What a beauty. Is it real gold?
Of course. Dont lose it.
Back home, Elaine set the table. Alex immediately started drinking.
Arent you knocking it back a bit, dear? she cooed, admiring her ring.
Im toasting our happiness. Now, be a love and fry some beef. Got to have a bit of grub with my drink.
Theres none left; Ive made a salad
What dyou mean, none? Youve still got that cow in the shed.
But thats Bess, my milker. I sell her milk. Its my living.
Alex scowled. Forget pennies. Got a rich husband now! You always serve up chicken, I want beef.
But slaughtering the cow is a whole days work
Alex thumped the table. I said I want beef!
The Beef
Elaine scoured the village for a butcher but had no luckno one fancied working in the biting cold.
Finally, Clive agreed. He eyed her sternly: Why are you getting rid of the cow?
Elaine dropped her gaze. She couldnt admit it was just because her husband wanted beef.
She lied. Its just too much, keeping her. The cost of hay, feed…
You married nowsurely your husband could help?
Will you help or not?
I will. Ill come by in an hour.
Elaine returned home, stoked the fire, and heated water.
Her husband didnt once come out to help.
Elaines heart broke when Bess, not the least bit suspicious, gazed up at her.
In an hour, it was done. Clive butchered the carcass and Elaine dragged it all home.
Why isnt your husband helping? Clive grumbled.
Hes from the cityhasnt the first clue about livestock.
Elaine handed him a tub of beef, Take this for yourself, as thanks. I mean ita lifesaver.
Thats a lot.
Clive took the meat, gave her a searching, gentle look, and for a moment, Elaine was lost for words.
Just then, Alex appeared outside, roaring drunk. Wife! Who you talking to out there? I want my beef! Get a move onyou owe me a wedding night too!
Clive was disappointed.
So, you two are properly wed? he asked.
Elaine nodded with a weak smile. Yes.
Clive flung the meat into the snow and, grabbing his tools, headed off.
Daughter
Married life with Alex quickly wore thin.
He spent all his time drinking or eating. Mostly beef. The man was a carnivore.
He even learnt to cook it haphazardly himself.
Elaines yard was empty. The only one left was Daisy, meowing pitifully.
Im sick of that cat. Whyd you bring it here? Chuck it out, her husband griped.
Emily came for a visit. She saw her mums new husband asleep at the table, snoring, drunk as a skunk.
She scolded Elaine, This is what you call being married?
Dont nag, love. Alex is decent, just under pressure. Imagine moving from London to hereits tough on him.
Mum, face it, hes been a drunk all his life. He treats you like hired help. You live in a fancy house, but its not even yours! If he throws you out for a younger woman, where will you go?
After another rant, Emily packed her things, ready to head home.
Take some beef with you, Elaine fussed, heading to the pantry, only to find the door locked.
Startled, she searched and found Alex asleep, keys in his pocket.
Alex, why have you locked the pantry?
He gave her a surly look. No more food parcels for your daughter.
What? What do you mean?
No kids. Dont give away anything.
Emily heard, pursed her lips, and said, Well, that says it all. Ill go, mum, dont bother.
Elaine felt crushed.
That night, Alex explained: My brother died recently. The house was in his name. Now his wife gets everything.
Elaine gasped. What do we do?
Alex shrugged. Figure it out. Dont move outhave some kids, lock the doors, fight for it. Itll be a battle, but what can you do?
Elaine shook her head. Thats not me.
Alex filled another glass, threw it back, and said, Well, if you havent got the stomach for it, pack up. Well move to your old place.
He went to the cooker, fished out cold meat and started eating with his hands.
That Sophie was a right cowbolted the moment she found out the truth. While my brother paid, she sang me praisesbut he died, the money stopped, and she legged it.
Elaine muttered in surprise. So thats why you stopped paying me
Yup. But youeasy as pie. Waved a promise in your face and you jumped into my bed.
Alex smirked.
Elaine bristled. Dont talk about me like that.
Oh, drop the innocent act, you married me for the house as much as I did.
He finished eating and took out another bottle.
Elaines heart sank. How could I have fallen for you? Lost my good cow, too.
Her mind made up, she left the house and opened the pantry. Time to leave Alex and get divorced.
Why live with someone who saw her as nothing but labour and had no love for her?
She was tired of his constant demands. He really was a parasite.
The barrel and box of meat were nearly empty.
Elaine searched high and low, but the meat was gone. She stormed back into the house.
Alex, wheres the beef? When did you?
Not your business. Exchanged it for something.
For what? She already knewthe crates of booze in the cellar.
What a wretch you are. That beef wouldve lasted us all year, and you gave it away for drink! Whatll we live on now?
He chuckled, spreading his arms. Ive got you. Youre resourceful.
Well, you can get lost, Alex. Im filing for divorce.
Epilogue
Elaine divorced Alex with no trouble, but that wasnt quite the end.
Left with nowhere to go, Alex tried to take over Elaines house. One night, he slipped in, crept to her bed, and tried to cuddle up.
Elaine nearly jumped out of her skin. Oh my God, whos there?!
Dont shout, Ellie, its only me, Alex.
Get away from me!
She leapt up, barefoot, and ran out into the snow to Maggies house, pounding at the window.
Its me, Maggie, open up!
Maggie came to the door groggy, Whats the matter, fire or what?
Worse, dear, just let me inbefore that devil follows me.
They locked the door and Elaine, exhausted, explained.
You were right. He was never a match for me. Now I cant get rid of him.
For weeks, Elaine had to hide while Alex finally left the village.
Even then, she was nervous of going home. The place was ransacked, cupboards empty, pantry cleaned out, no potatoes in the cellar, no jars of preserves left.
Elaine sat at her table, head in her hands. So much for marriage, she thought. Left with nothingnot even Bess the cow. How will I live?
The door creaked and Clive entered, the cat Daisy in his arms.
Ellie, I had a chat with Alex and gave him a proper talking-to. Told him to leave your house. I kept Daisy toogood cat, caught a mouse a day for me.
Elaine burst into tears, hugging Daisy.
Oh, Clive, thank you.
He asked, Are you crying cause I chased him off? That bloke was flogging your firewood around the village
Elaine sobbed even harder.
Forgive me, Clive for looking down on you.
He smiled. Lets get the fire going. Mums got the bathhouse heated up and baked a pie. Why dont you come stay with us for now? No reason to sit in a freezing house alone.
***
Not long after, Elaine and Clive married. Emily forgave her mum and came to visit with her husband.
Alex moved back to the city and, rumour had it, married a widowed lady of a certain age.
The wife of the late businessman, whod built the big house, came each summer. She turned out to be kind.
The first thing she did was pop round to Elaine with a homemade tart. They became friends.
Elaine once asked her what illness Alex really had. She just laughed, Alex? Ill? Dont kid yourselfhes as fit as a fiddle, just a hopeless drunk. My late husband, may he rest, took pity and let him live herehoping fresh air would sort him out. He drank his way round every pub in London and racked up debts wherever he went. All thats changed is his sceneryhes still drinking!
And at last, Elaine found a bit of peaceamong her own, in the place she belonged.
