Love or Enchantment

Author Harlan CovingtonReading 11 minViews 1

“Love or magic,” my old granny Morley used to say, handing down her witchcraft to my niece, Morgan. Youll wield great power, but everything has a price. Thats why we witches never find love, she warned, her voice as crackling as a hearth fire.

Morgan took those words to heart. Men never stuck; if one managed to orbit her, shed fling him into the void. Some were drunk, some full of themselves, some so infatuated I wanted to turn them into a toad, and a few were simply stubborn as a mule without any spell needed.

At last the hereditary witch threw up her hands. If loves cursed, its cursed! To hell with romance! she muttered, and adopted a brazen black tomcat, naming him Puff.

One dreary afternoon a raven-delivered invitation from an old friend at the Academy of Dark Arts, Evelyn, caught Morgan off guard. She unfurled the ebony parchment, the lettering a deep scarlet swirl:

Hello, Morgan! The girls and I have agreed to host a familystyle dinner on Friday the 13th. Sabbaths are fine, but were more than colleagues; were mates, and our partners hardly know each other. We need to bring our significant others. Lenny and I have been together five years now”

Whats Lenny? Morgan thought, trying to recall any detail about Evelyns love life. She remembered next to nothing.

Dinah will bring her Frank. Brett will bring Ernest. And Marian is expecting either Mark or Max she cant keep the names straight. So come with your beloved, but if youre still solo, no worries; well still love having you, the note read.

No worries! you say? Well love you being a fool and single! Morgan shouted, her voice echoing off the stone walls. How had Evelyn and the others sidestepped the ageold witchs curse of lovelessness? Had Morgans power simply repelled affection, or was she the one truly unlucky?

She dismissed the notion of love charms outright. The girls, proud sorceresses, swore never to use lovespells, likening them to a quack doctor poking at a sore eye. If I end up with a face full of pimples, so be it! they declared.

The clock ticked down to the dinner, and Morgans anxiety grew. She could either appear proudly alone, claiming her magic was a shield, or she could bring a companion and spare the girls the awkward silence. A living male shoulder seemed far more appealing than a solitary, enchanted excuse.

Three days before the gathering Morgan panicked. The night before she was a bundle of nerves. When half a day remained, she lost her ability to think straight but gained a sudden urge to act.

She inspected the drawingroom, her eyes landing on Puff, who was now meticulously licking his paw. No! she whispered to herself, then, almost at the same time, Yes! She recalled an old, complicated incantation, muttered the arcane words, and aimed the spell at the cat.

The transformation was swift. A tall, muscular man appeared, his skin the colour of midnight. Youre African? Morgan asked, startled.

Dont mind my shade. Got a problem with it? the man replied, licking his hand with a disdainful flick, just as a cat would.

I have no problem but what about your voice? she pressed, noting his high falsetto clashed with the alpha image shed hoped to present.

You recall the day of the injection? The white walls, the vetlike doctor, the awakening? he asked, eyebrows rising. You never lived through it, did you?

Probably for the best. At least you wont be darting around the back alleys, Morgan muttered, trying to sound indifferent.

Youre off to a dinner, right? Not a ball, she stammered, her thoughts tangled. Your voices gone, youll be silent, Ill speak for you. Youll be called Alex. Your job is to look like a lovestruck gentleman and impress my friends. Got it?

Alex merely sneered, continuing to groom himself. Morgan, doubting hed understood, clarified:

What will you do when we arrive?

I dont like strangers homes, Alex said, fiddling with a dangling amulet, Ill slip into the farthest room, find a bed, and hide under it. Anyone who tries to pull me out will get a swipe.

No hiding! No swipes! Morgan snapped, her tone softening. If you do as I ask, Ill feed you the finest liver forever.

And salmon, Alex added.

And no broken nose? Morgan asked.

Only if I cant find a loo, Ill commandeer someones shoes, he replied.

Fine. Salmon it is, she conceded.

Valerian? Alex asked, eyes gleaming.

Youll be drinking it, Morgan warned. Youll choke on it.

Itll be you choking on the shame Ill give you, Alex retorted, his voice a growl.

Shamemerchant, Morgan muttered, sighing. Youre a blackmailer, you know that?

The night of the dinner, Morgan whispered to AlexAlex, Charm them, but stay silent.

I could purr, that always works, he said.

Dont you dare, she warned. Youll get your tail cut off.

The humans love cutting off bits from us, Alex muttered. Shhh

She crossed her fingers, pressed the doorbell, and the host, Evelyn, greeted them with a tall, trim blond beside her. For a split second Morgan thought Alex might hiss, but he stood there with a harmless smile.

The girls were already assembled. Dinahs Frank was a muscular brunette with a pallid, handsome face that somehow left Morgan uneasy, as if something needed tweaking. Bretts Ernest was a rocksolid, lumbering fellow, slowmoving with a heavy stare. Marians Marksometimes called Maxwas an average bloke, eyes glued to his girlfriend with a devotion that never wavered.

Alex behaved decently, only once tugging at the strap of Bretts dress when she turned away; Morgan snatched the toy from his grasp, threatening to withhold salmon.

The evening unfolded smoothly. Alex kept his silence. The women chattered about how theyd met, future plans, and the like. Morgan found herself scrambling for a romantic anecdote, a legend of how a darkwinged stranger had crashed onto her shore, but the comfort of not being the worst of the lot steadied her. By the second half she was relaxinguntil it happened.

Alex rose from the table.

Where are you off to? Morgan hissed at his ear.

Ive got to go, he snapped back.

Find the shoes! You know where the room is? she demanded.

Of course. Calm down. He slipped away, leaving Morgan on edge. She fretted shed mix up the bathroom with the cloakroom, or worse, start dumping random objects down the loo. An hour passed and Alex hadnt returned. She glanced around: Dinah was adjusting Franks tie, Brett coaxed Ernest to loosen his stonelike expression, Marian listened to Marks love confession, and Evelyn cast a displeased glance at a chickenbonechewing Lenny.

Morgan slipped from the table, muttering, Wheres that beast? She found the catturnedman on the kitchen counter.

Off! she hissed, Get off the table! What are you doing here?

Theres sausage, Alex replied, hissing and purring.

Theres sausage on your plate too! Morgan shouted. That ones better.

Really? Mines tastier, he purred louder.

Off the counter at once! Dont embarrass me! she snapped, wresting him away. He resisted, toppling cups and plates, landing not on four feline paws but on his rump like a ordinary man.

Just then Evelyn burst in.

Whats happening? Alex, are you alright?

Yeah! Morgans frantic mind seized on a clue. Hes panicking! Hes overstimulated.

Hold on, well fix you, Evelyn said, pulling a vial from a cupboard, dropping a spoonful into a cup, and handing it to Alex with a glass of water. Drink, itll calm you.

Before Morgan could stop him, Alex shoved the water away, gulped the entire vial, and swallowed it whole.

He cant have valerian! Morgan realized too late.

Yes I can! Alex roared, voice booming. Now I can do anything!

He bolted, brandishing a fallen beer can like a sword.

Is he alright? Evelyn asked, bewildered.

Allergy to valerian, Morgan muttered, chasing after the rampaging creature.

She caught him in the bedroom, where he vaulted onto the sofa back, hung from the curtains, snapped the rod, and tumbled across the carpet. When she tried to pull him down, Alex sprang up with a mischievous glint and darted toward the pantry.

Biscuit! he shouted from inside a microwavebox, stuffing his black fur into the cardboard.

The whole group gathered, eyes wide, as the catinhumanform tried to cram himself into the flimsy box, which bulged and gave way under his weight.

Hes like my cat! Dinah giggled.

Morgan could only facepalm, echoing a famous captains gesture.

Is it really an allergy? Evelyn squinted, skeptical.

Stop it, Alex grunted, Im a cat!

Blimey! Morgan muttered, recalling a spell to sink someone underground.

How could you? Dinah shouted.

A neutered cat, thats what, Alex quipped, collapsing in the broken box.

Morgan Brett said, reproachful, and a hush fell. Then Dinass boyfriend let out a laugh so loud his pale face turned blue, his head snapping back, and he fell off his chair.

Oops, Dinahs cheeks went as white as snow.

Whats happening? Evelyns voice trembled with shock.

Morgan stared at the stillstanding, seemingly normal torso, then at the trembling head on the floor. I think I revived Frank, Dinah whispered, Zombies are always unreliable his head was on the body, the body just the body after the mishap.

You both betrayed our oath, Evelyn began, stern as a teacher, We swore never to deceive each other. Yet youve trampled the purest trust.

Ernest is a golem, Bret muttered faintly.

light what? Evelyn gasped, eyes darkening. You too, Bret?

Alright, alright, Marian cut in, I must confess. Markwell, Max I charmed him.

A collective Ah! rang out.

Yes, I broke our vow! What else could I do? I thought you all had happy love lives. Evelyn, you always bragged about Lenny. It hurt me badly

We all fell for it, Morgan nodded.

Losers! Evelyn sneered, turning away. Lets go, Lenny.

Lenny stood there, growling at the flailing Africanlooking cat in the box.

Lenny! Evelyn shouted, the growl swelling.

At that moment Morgan decided the human guise was no longer suitable. She muttered a quiet reversal spell. Alex shrank back into his sleek black cat form, while Lenny began to contract, fur sprouting over his limbs until a tiny brown Chihuahua barked at the cat.

Poor Lenny! Marial laughed, and the room erupted in chuckles, except for Evelyn, who flushed scarlet.

An hour later, the witches abandoned their failed suitors and headed to the nearest pub, joining a handful of former darkarts graduates. By tradition, every Friday the 13th theyd drink to their chronic misfortune in love, clinking glasses of ale and sharing stories of curses, broken spells, and the occasional accidental catturnhuman. The night stretched on, full of laughter and the warm glow of camaraderie, proving that even cursed witches could find a bit of solace in a good pint and good company.

A Late Gift The bus jerked, and Mrs. Anne Peterson gripped the rail with both hands, feeling the coarse plastic flex slightly beneath her fingers. Her grocery bag thumped against her knees, apples rolling dully inside. She stood by the door, counting down the stops to her own. Earbuds fizzed quietly—her granddaughter had asked her not to turn off her phone: “Just in case, Gran, I might call.” The phone sat in her coat’s outer pocket, heavy as a brick. Anne Peterson checked, all the same, to be sure the zip was fastened. She pictured entering her flat, setting the bag on the kitchen stool, changing her shoes, hanging up her coat and carefully folding her scarf. Then she’d unpack the groceries, put soup on the hob. Her son would stop by in the evening to pick up containers; he worked shifts and had no time to cook. The bus braked and doors parted. She eased herself down the steps, holding the rail, and stepped into her estate. Children darted around with a football—a girl on a scooter nearly clipped her before swerving at the last second. The entrance hall smelled of cat food and cigarette smoke. In the hallway, Anne set down her grocery bag, slipped off her shoes and pushed them toe-first to the wall. Coat on the hook, scarf folded neatly. In the kitchen, she sorted groceries: carrots with the veg, chicken in the fridge, bread in the bin. She filled a pan with water just until her palm could still touch the bottom. Her phone buzzed on the table. She dried her hands, pulled it closer. “Yes, Sasha?” she said, leaning in, hoping to hear her son better. “Hello Mum, how are you?” His voice was hurried, someone else speaking in the background. “I’m fine. Making soup. Will you drop in?” “Yes, in a couple of hours. Listen, Mum—there’s another collection at school, the nursery wants money for repairs. Could you… like last time?” Anne was already reaching for the drawer where she kept her little grey notebook of spending. “How much?” she asked. “If you can, three hundred. Of course, everyone’s chipping in, but you know…” He sighed. “It’s tough out there.” “I understand,” she said. “All right, I’ll give it.” “Thanks, Mum. You’re a star. I’ll stop by later for your famous soup.” As she rang off, the water in the pan was boiling already. Anne dropped in the chicken, sprinkled in some salt, added a bay leaf. She sat at the table and opened her notebook. “Pension” at the top, inked in ballpoint. Beneath: bills, medicine, “grandchildren”, “unexpected”. She wrote “nursery” and the amount, pausing a moment. The numbers shifted—less left than she wished, but not disastrous. “It’ll be fine,” she thought, closing the book. On the fridge, a magnet held a small calendar. Below the dates, an advert: “Community Arts Centre: Season Tickets—Classical Music, Jazz, Theatre. Senior discounts.” The magnet had been a birthday gift from her neighbour, Margaret, along with an apple pie. Anne often found herself rereading those words as she waited for the kettle. Again today, her eyes snagged on “season tickets”. She remembered years ago, before she was married, standing in queues for the symphony with her friend. Tickets were dirt cheap, if you braved the wind and joked to keep warm. Back then she’d had long hair in a bun, wore her best dress and only heels. Now, she pictured the auditorium—a place she hadn’t visited in years. Her grandkids dragged her to pantos and nativity plays, but that was different, all noise and confetti and shouting. Here… she didn’t even know what concerts they played nowadays—nor who went. She took the magnet down and flipped it over. On the back—a website address and phone number. The website meant nothing to her, but the phone… She put the magnet back. The thought didn’t go away. “Nonsense,” she told herself. “Better save up for a new jacket for Chloe. Kids grow, everything’s so dear nowadays.” She turned down the stove, sat again but left the notebook closed. Instead, she reached into a drawer and pulled out a battered old envelope, her “rainy day” fund. Not much inside, a handful of notes stashed over recent months—for the washing machine, for blood tests if she needed them. She fingered the money, counting, with that advert echoing in her mind. Her son arrived that evening, hung his jacket on the chair, unpacked the Tupperware. “Ooh, borscht!” he said, pleased. “You’ve done it again, Mum! Have you eaten?” “Yes, yes—help yourself. The money’s ready.” She counted out three notes from the envelope. “Mum, you need to keep track of what’s left,” he said, taking the cash. “What if you’re short?” “I keep records,” she said. “Everything’s in order.” “You’re the family’s accountant,” he grinned. “By the way, could you come by on Saturday? Tanya and I need to nip to the shops—no one to watch the kids.” “I can,” she nodded. “What else have I got to do?” He told her about his boss, about work, new policies. At the door, he turned: “Mum, do you ever buy anything for yourself? Or is it all for us and the kids?” “I have everything I need,” she said. “What more could I want?” He waved it off: “All right, all right. I’ll pop by next week.” When he closed the door, the flat was quiet once more. Anne did the dishes, wiped down the table. Then glanced again at the magnet. In her mind, his question echoed: “Do you ever buy for yourself?” Next morning, she lay awake, staring at the ceiling. Grandkids at school and nursery, son at work—no one expected till evening. The day looked free, but was full of little chores: water the plants, mop the floor, sort old newspapers. She got up, did the stretching her GP had suggested: slow arms up, gentle reach, turn the neck. Then kettle on, tea in the cup. As the water boiled she took down the magnet once more. “Community Arts Centre. Season Tickets…” She picked up the phone, dialled the number. Her heart thudded. Three rings, then a calm woman’s voice. “Community Centre Box Office, how can I help?” “Hello,” Anne said, her mouth dry. “I was calling about… season tickets.” “Yes, of course. Which series are you interested in?” “I’m… not sure. What do you have?” The woman listed: symphony, chamber music, “An Evening of British Song”, children’s theatre. “Seniors get a discount,” she added, “but a season ticket is still a fair bit. Four concerts.” “Can you buy them singly?” asked Anne. “Yes, but it works out dearer that way.” Anne pictured her notebook, her envelope. She asked the price. The number sounded heavy in her mind—doable, but leaving her “rainy day” fund thin. “Think about it,” the woman said. “They do sell fast.” “Thank you,” Anne replied, hanging up. The kettle shrieked. She poured her tea, sat down, opened the notebook. On a clean page, she wrote: “Season Ticket”. Next to it—the price. Underneath: “Four concerts.” “How much would that be monthly?” she calculated. Not too bad. She could buy less chocolate. Skip the hairdresser this month, cut her own fringe. Faces of her grandkids swam up: the youngest wanted a building set, the eldest dance trainers. Her son and daughter-in-law sighed about the mortgage. And then—her own wish, suddenly shameful, as if concerts were a secret vice. She closed the book, undecided, and set to scrubbing the floor, sorting the washing, draping laundry on the radiator. But the thought of the hall wouldn’t go. After lunch, the doorbell rang. It was Margaret from next door, clutching a jar of pickles. “Take these,” she said, bustling in. “Nowhere to keep them. How are you?” “I’m all right,” Anne smiled. “Just thinking…” She trailed off. It felt silly to say aloud. “Thinking what?” Margaret settled with her knitting. “A concert,” Anne admitted. “They’re selling season tickets at the Arts Centre. I used to love concerts. But it’s too expensive.” Margaret raised her eyebrows. “Why ask me? It’s your business. If you want it, get it.” “But the money…” Anne began. “Money, money,” Margaret scoffed. “You’ve helped everyone all your life. Gave your son money again, right? And presents to the grandkids? But yourself—look at you, same old shawl, same winter coat. What’s wrong with a treat for yourself?” “It’s not a one-off,” Anne protested. “I used to go.” “Used to? When ice creams were ten pence,” Margaret snorted. “Times have changed. This is your own money—not theirs.” “They’ll say it’s silly,” Anne said quietly. “That the kids need it more.” “Then don’t tell them,” Margaret shrugged. “Or say you were at the clinic. Though—why hide? You’re not a child.” The words “not a child” stung. Anne felt something inside—a mix of embarrassment and pride. “I go to the clinic anyway,” she said. “But still, it’s scary. What if I can’t manage it, what if there are stairs, what if my heart…” “There’s a lift,” said Margaret. “And you’ll be sitting, not running around. I went to the theatre last month—survived! Legs ached but it cheered me up for a year.” They chatted about the news, medicines. When Margaret left, Anne again picked up the phone. Before she could lose her nerve, she rang the box office: “I’d like a season ticket for ‘An Evening of British Song’, please.” She took down the address, ticket office hours, pinned the note to her fridge with the magnet. Her heart pounded. That evening her daughter-in-law called. “Anne, you’ll watch the kids Saturday, yes? We want to check the sales at the shopping centre.” “I can,” Anne replied. “Thank you! We’ll bring you something—tea? New towels?” “No need,” she said. “I don’t need anything.” She checked the fridge note. The ticket office closed at six. She’d need to leave early. That night she dreamed of the concert hall: plush seats, bright lights, people in dark clothes. She sat among them, clutching a programme, afraid to shift in case she disturbed her neighbours. Next morning she woke with anxiety. “Why did I get myself into this mess—so much trouble…” But the fridge note stayed put. After breakfast, she got out her best coat, dusted it off, checked the buttons. Chose a warm scarf, comfy shoes, packed her passport, purse, glasses, blood pressure tablets, and a bottle of water. Before she left, she sat on the hallway stool, listening to her body. No dizziness, no trembling. “I’ll get there,” she told herself, locking the door behind her. The bus ride was short, just a few stops. A young man gave her his seat, and she thanked him, sitting by the window with her handbag in her lap. The Arts Centre was only two stops from the High Street—a tall building with columns, bright posters across the front. Two women smoked outside, waving their arms as they chatted. Inside, the air smelled of wood polish and something sweet from the café. The ticket office was just in, a woman behind the glass with a kind voice. Anne handed over her passport and named her chosen series. “We have a seniors’ discount. There are still good seats in the middle,” the cashier smiled, pointing to a seating chart. Anne nodded, not sure what it all meant. When the price was given, her hand trembled. For a moment she almost said she’d come back next time. But the queue behind her rustled, someone cleared their throat, and she placed her notes on the counter. “There’s your season ticket,” the woman said, giving her the stiff cardboard pass. “First concert’s in two weeks. Arrive early to find your seat.” The ticket was beautiful: a picture of the stage on the cover, neat programme listings inside. Anne slipped it into her bag, wedged between her passport and the recipe notebook she always carried. She felt faint as she left, sat on a bench outside and took a sip of water. Nearby, two teens chatted about bands she’d never heard of. She listened, the words as remote as a foreign language. “Well then,” she thought. “I’ve bought it. No turning back now.” The next two weeks passed in chores. The grandkids caught colds; she stewed compotes, took temperatures. Her son delivered groceries, collected leftovers. She nearly confided in him about the concert, but switched topics each time. On the day of the first concert, she woke early, stomach fluttery as before an exam. She prepped dinner ahead, so she wouldn’t be stuck on the stove. She called her son: “I’ll be out this evening. If you need me, let me know beforehand.” “Out where?” he asked, surprised. She hesitated. She didn’t want to lie, but the truth felt awkward. “The Arts Centre. A concert.” A pause. “What concert? Mum, you need that? It’ll be full of young people, noise, all hustle.” “It’s not a disco,” she replied, keeping calm. “They’re performing English songs.” “Who asked you to go?” “No one,” she said. “I bought the season myself.” The silence stretched. “Mum… seriously? You know it’s not easy for us right now—those savings…” “I know,” she cut in. “But this is my money.” Her voice was firmer than expected, even to her own ears. She clenched the phone, bracing for an outburst. “Fine,” he sighed. “Your call. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you if you need it later. And be careful—don’t catch cold. Remember your age…” “At my age, I can sit and listen to some music. I’m not climbing mountains.” He sighed again, softly. “All right. Ring me when you get in, so I don’t worry.” “I will,” she promised. She sat for a while, looking at the ticket. Her hands shook. She felt reckless, almost improper. But she wasn’t backing down. By evening, she dressed in her best: navy dress, neat collar, ladder-free tights, sensible pumps. She brushed her hair longer than usual, smoothing the wisps. It was nearly dark when she went out. Shop windows glowed, people queued for the bus. She clutched her bag—ticket, passport, tissues, pills inside. The bus was crowded. Someone stepped on her foot and apologised. She gripped the pole, counting stops. At her destination, she squeezed out, careful not to bump anyone. Outside the Arts Centre, all sorts queued—older couples, younger women, a few lads in jeans. Anne relaxed a little; she wasn’t the oldest there. In the cloakroom, she handed over her coat, received a numbered tag. For a moment she hesitated, unsure of the way, then followed an arrow for “Auditorium”, clinging to the rail. Inside, it was dim, just pin lights above the rows. An usher checked tickets. “Row six, seat nine,” she said. “Just along here.” Anne made her way, mumbling “sorry” as people let her past. She found her seat, sat, placed her bag on her lap. Her heart pounded, now with anticipation. Around her, people chatted, rustled programmes. She opened hers, tracing unfamiliar titles. At the bottom she spotted the name of a composer she remembered from radio years ago. The lights went down. The compère spoke, but Anne barely heard—it mattered more that she was here, among these people, not at home beside the cooker. When the first music began, she shivered. The singer’s voice was rich and a little rough—songs of love, farewells, roads that led far away. Suddenly, they felt hers too; she remembered other towns, other times, sitting in just such a hall beside someone long gone. Her eyes stung, but she didn’t cry. She just sat, clutching her bag, and listened. After a while, her body relaxed, her breath slowed. Music filled the space—her life, for once, not just drudgery and counting pennies. At the interval, her back ached, legs stiff. She stretched in the foyer, people discussing the performance. Some bought cakes, some had tea. She allowed herself a small chocolate, though she usually skipped such things. “Lovely,” she said aloud, tasting a bite. A woman nearby, about her age, smiled. “Good concert, isn’t it?” “Yes,” said Anne. “I haven’t been in years.” “Me neither,” said the woman. “Always something—grandchildren, garden. But I thought: if not now, when?” They shared a few words about the singer. Then the bell rang, and everyone returned to their seats. The second half swept by. Anne forgot about the cost or her savings; she just listened. When the music ended, she applauded till her palms stung. Outside, the air was chilly, fresh. She walked to the stop, legs tired, but with a small warmth inside—not euphoria, but the sense she’d done something truly for herself. At home, she called her son. “I’m home,” she said. “All fine.” “How was it? Not too cold?” “It was… lovely,” she said. He paused, then: “That’s all right then. Just don’t overdo it. We need to keep saving, you know.” “I remember. But I’ve already paid for three more concerts.” “Three?” he said, surprised. “Well, since you have, you’d better go. Just be careful.” She hung up, set her coat and bag in their places. Made tea and sat down. The season ticket lay before her, corners a bit bent. She ran her fingers over it, then transferred the concert dates into her wall calendar, circling them in pen. Next week, when her son needed money for another appeal, Anne opened her notebook, stared at the figures, and said: “I can only give half. I need the rest.” “What for?” he asked, automatically. She looked at his tired face, the dark rings under his eyes. “For me,” she said quietly. “I need it myself.” He looked like he might argue, then waved it off. “All right, Mum. Whatever you say.” That evening, left alone, Anne took out an old photo album. In one was a much younger her, in a white dress, outside a different concert hall, holding a programme and smiling shyly. She studied the face, linking it to her reflection in the mirror. She returned the album to its place. On the fridge, beside the magnet, she pinned a new note: “Next concert—15th.” Underneath: “Leave early.” Life didn’t change overnight. Each morning, Anne made soup, washed up, visited the surgery, babysat the grandchildren. Her son still asked for help, and she helped if she could. But now, deep down, she had her own pocket of time, her own little plans that needed no explanation. Passing the fridge, she sometimes touched the note with her fingers. Each time, a private, stubborn feeling grew: she was still alive, she still had the right to want. One evening, reading the paper, she saw an advert for a free beginners’ English class for seniors at the local library. You just had to sign up. She tore it out and slipped it next to her ticket. Then poured another tea, wondering, was this one wish too many? “I’ll hear my songs out first,” she decided. “Then I’ll see.” She tucked the ad into her notebook, but the idea of learning something new no longer felt impossible. That night, before bed, she drew back the curtain. In the courtyard, the street lamps glowed; a teenager walked by with headphones, a boy thumped a football. Anne leaned on the window, feeling calm settle inside her. Life went on, full of chores and sacrifice, but somewhere within, there was room for four evenings in the hall, and perhaps a few new words in an unfamiliar tongue. She turned out the kitchen light, went to her room, and pulled the covers up neat. Tomorrow would be as always—shopping, calls, cooking. But a little ring was on her calendar, and that changed something precious, even if nobody else ever noticed.

This Is Not Up for Debate “Nina will be living with us—end of discussion,” declared Zach, setting his spoon aside. He hadn’t touched his dinner, clearly preparing for a serious conversation. “We have the room—all freshly refurbished—and in two weeks, my daughter will be moving in.” “Haven’t you forgotten something?” Ksyusha asked, silently counting to ten. “Like the fact that we renovated that room for our future child—our child. Or the small detail that Nina has a mother—the one she should be living with?” “I remember we talked about having a baby,” Zach replied solemnly. He’d hoped his wife would simply accept his decision, negating the need for further debate. “But that can wait a few years. Anyway, you’ve got your studies to finish—now is not the time for children. Besides, Nina doesn’t want siblings. And as for her mother…” Zach’s mouth twisted into a grim smile. “I’m getting her parental rights revoked. It’s dangerous for the girl to even be in the same room as that woman!” “A girl? She’s twelve!” Ksyusha shot back with raised eyebrows. “Hardly a toddler. And dangerous how? Because her mother won’t let her out after ten at night, or because she has to do her homework or risk losing phone privileges? Honestly, your ex is a saint for not resorting to a belt!” “You don’t know anything,” Zach seethed. “Nina’s shown me bruises and messages with insults and threats. I won’t let my daughter’s life be ruined.” “But that’s exactly what you’re doing—letting her manipulate you.” Ksyusha rose from the table, appetite gone and a headache forming at the sight of her stubborn husband. People had warned her against marrying in haste—“Live together first, test your feelings!”—but she’d arrogantly thought she knew best. She wanted to beat her friends down the aisle. Why were people against her rushing into marriage? It was simple. For Zach, it was a second marriage; he was fifteen years her senior and had a pre-teen daughter he adored. Independently, these were minor issues—together, nearly disastrous. The first two didn’t bother her much. In fact, she liked that Zach was older and experienced, and she knew the divorce from his ex-wife Alla was amicable. But the third reason—Nina—was another story. Wild, disobedient, spoilt, mostly raised by her gran while her parents worked hard to provide for her, Nina was unfazed by her parents’ split—she knew her dad would always be there for her, remarriage or not. Her mother’s remarriage, on the other hand, shook her world. Now her new stepfather was taking her upbringing seriously and her mother, now home more after a job change, sided with her new husband. Curfews, homework, tutors to catch up on neglected subjects—all infuriated a girl accustomed to hours of TV and computer time. So she began inventing tales to worry her father. Nina desperately wanted to live with Zach, knowing he’d be at work and she’d have freedom under Ksyusha, who was only nine years older and not about to act as a parental authority. To secure her “free life,” Nina was ready to do anything. ***** “Nina’s arriving today. Get her room ready, and please don’t upset her—she’s been through enough,” Zach said, adjusting his tie. “If I’d known Alla would start mistreating Nina because of her new husband… but it’s too late to change anything now.” “So you really won’t reconsider? You’re set on her moving in?” Ksyusha had clung to hope her husband’s plans would fall through. “And who’s going to look after her? You don’t get home before eight.” “You’ll keep an eye on her,” he shrugged. “She’s twelve—not three. She can manage herself.” “I have final exams coming up—you told me I needed to focus on my studies,” Ksyusha smirked. “If Nina wants to live here, she’d better be quiet and not disturb me. I hope she knows how to wash dishes and mop the floors—because that’s her job for the next two weeks.” “She’s not a housemaid—” “Neither am I,” Ksyusha cut him off. “But if she lives here, she helps out. You’d better discuss house rules with your daughter.” ***** “Dad, are you really going to let her treat me like this? I can’t even see my friends—your wife piles all the chores on me while she watches TV and grins.” Listening from the hallway, Ksyusha smirked. As if anyone could make Nina do a single chore! She’d sooner see pigs fly. “I’ll talk to Ksyusha, I promise. But you need to try to get along with her. Nina, I know it’s hard, but I physically can’t supervise you all the time. Find common ground with Ksyusha, show her you’re a good girl.” “I’ll try,” Nina replied unconvincingly, realizing her pleas would get her nowhere. “By the way, is it true you bought her a car?” “Yes. Why?” “No reason. But you told me you couldn’t afford to send me abroad for the holidays! But that’s all I dreamt of!” “You can’t travel on your own—you’re only twelve. We’ll go together, as a family, in summer.” “But I don’t want a family holiday! You don’t love me at all, do you? Why did you even take me from mum? Your wife hates me, you’re always at work…” Ksyusha stopped listening. She knew Nina would get her way, not just with holidays but everything else. The cunning girl intended to get rid of any competition for dad’s affection—and might well succeed. Ksyusha was tired of resentment from her husband and resolved: after one more row, she’d file for divorce. She’d spoil Nina’s victory by making sure Zach still paid regular support after splitting. Some consolation. ***** Ksyusha was right—the evening began with a torrent of complaints. She listened calmly, then announced she was filing for divorce. “I want peace, not endless accusations at my expense. And I did warn you—letting your daughter call the shots was a terrible idea.” Catching Nina’s triumphant smile, Ksyusha brought her back to earth. “And don’t look too pleased—who knows what the future holds? For example, I could give your father an ultimatum: if he wants to see our child—” she patted her stomach, “you’ll have to go back to your mum. Or something like that.” While Nina struggled for words and Zach tried to process the turn of events, Ksyusha picked up her suitcase and left the flat. She wasn’t actually pregnant—she just wanted to shake up that bratty girl and give her husband a lesson in child psychology. This Is Not Up For Debate: When Your Husband’s Daughter Moves In, Your Family Plans Fall Apart, and It’s Time to Fight for Your Own Happiness

The Bench in the Courtyard Victor Stevens stepped out into the courtyard just after one. A dull ache pressed at his temples—he’d finished the last of the holiday salads yesterday, and spent the morning taking down Christmas decorations and packing away ornaments. The house was too quiet. He pulled on his hat, slipped his phone into his pocket, and went downstairs, steadying himself on the banister as usual. In the pale January noon, the courtyard looked like a stage set: shoveled walkways, untouched drifts of snow, not a soul in sight. Victor Stevens brushed off the bench by the second entrance, letting the snow fall softly from the wooden slats. It was a good place to think, especially when it was deserted—you could sit for five minutes and go home refreshed. “Mind if I join you?” a man’s voice asked. Victor turned his head. Tall guy, navy blue jacket, mid-fifties. The face was vaguely familiar. “Have a seat, there’s plenty of room,” Victor said, sliding over. “Which flat are you from?” “Number forty-three, second floor. Three weeks since I moved in. I’m Michael.” “Victor Stevens,” he replied automatically, shaking the offered hand. “Welcome to our quiet corner.” Michael pulled out a pack of cigarettes. “Mind if I smoke?” “Go ahead, by all means.” Victor hadn’t smoked in ten years, but the scent of tobacco unexpectedly reminded him of the newsroom where he’d spent most of his working life. He caught himself wanting to breathe in the smoke, then quickly pushed the feeling away. “You lived here long?” Michael asked. “Since ’87. The whole block was just built then.” “I used to work nearby, at the Metalmaker’s Community Centre. Sound engineer.” Victor started. “With Valery Zakharovich?” “That’s right! And you—how do you know him?” “Did a feature on him. Back in ’89, for the anniversary concert. Remember when ‘August’ played?” “I could tell you the whole concert, start to finish!” Michael grinned. “We lugged in a massive speaker; the power supply was sparking…” The conversation took on a life of its own—names, stories, some funny, some bittersweet. Victor found himself thinking he ought to go home, but every time, the talk drifted on—musicians, equipment, backstage secrets. He hadn’t talked like this in ages. In his later years at the paper, it was all deadline pieces, and since retiring, he’d withdrawn. He convinced himself it was easier, not to depend on anyone, not to get attached. But now something inside felt like it was thawing. “You know,” Michael said, stubbing out his third cigarette, “I’ve still got a whole archive at home. Posters, photos. Concert tapes I made myself. If you’re interested…” Why would I need that? Victor thought. Then you have to visit, keep talking. Maybe he’ll want to be friends, upend your routines. And what new things would I even see? “I’d like that,” he said. “When suits you?” “Tomorrow, say around five? I’ll be back from work by then.” “Let’s do it.” Victor pulled out his phone and opened contacts. “Take my number. If anything changes, just call.” That night, he couldn’t sleep. He replayed their talk, remembered details from old stories. He reached for his phone several times—to cancel, to make excuses. He didn’t. In the morning, he woke to a call. On screen: “Michael, neighbor.” “Still up for it?” Michael’s voice sounded a little uncertain. “Yes,” Victor replied. “See you at five.”