Three Broken Fates
Well, well, lets see This looks rather intriguing!
It all began on an ordinary Saturday while Emily tidied up the sitting room, aunt Jane prepared roast beef in the kitchen. While rifling through the clutter atop the wardrobe, Emily stumbled upon an old, worn-out photo album shed never seen before. Curiosity got the better of hershe curled up in the armchair and began to leaf through the pages.
The first snaps were filled with joy: a youthful Jane and her friends by a city fountain, a cheerful picnic in the countryside, a laughing girl in a field of wildflowers. Then came a series featuring a tall, dark-haired manJane and her companion looked so happy together, often hugging, gazing at one another with unmistakable affection. Emily studied each photograph keenly: here they were in a charming café, here strolling along the seaside promenade, here, hand in hand, laughing. Remarkable! Who was this dashing fellow? And why did he look at her mother with such adoration?
Intrigued, Emily padded into the warm, fragrant kitchen, clutching the album. Jane was just pulling an apple crumble out of the oven, the sweet scent of cinnamon and sugar filling the air.
Mum, Emily began, holding up the album, whos the gentleman in these photographs? I dont recognise him.
Jane glanced back, and Emily noticed the way her mothers fingers trembled on the tea towel just for a heartbeat. But then, Jane smiled gently and set the baking dish on the counter.
Oh, thats Nicholas, Jane replied breezily, though a faint tension coloured her voice. We dated years ago, before I ever met your father.
Why havent you ever mentioned him? Emily moved closer, flipping through the pages. You both looked so happy! What happened? Why did you part ways?
Jane wiped her hands on her apron, hesitating a moment. She walked over to look out of the frosted window, where the neighbours children chased one another around the garden. This wasnt a subject Jane relished, yet she knew Emily would not drop it easily.
Its quite a complicated story, darling, Jane said at last, turning back. We really loved each other, but we couldnt stay together. Because of a mistake I made. Yes, it was entirely my fault.
Emily sank into a kitchen chair, eyes fixed on her mother. She could see how much these simple photographs pained Jane, and already regretted dredging up old memories. Still, curiosity gnawed at her; she felt guilty, but she needed to know.
Tell me everything, she whispered, earnest and intent. Please. Ive always sensed theres tension between you and Dad. You never loved himany of us can see that. Why? If you can explain, I want to understand. Hes my father and I accept him, but lets face it, hes hard, jealous, unwilling to care about the feelings of others. I doubt he was ever different. Why did you choose him over Nicholas?
Jane stilled, her fingertips trembling slightly as she set her teacup down, eyes lowered. After a long, steadying breath, she finally spoke:
Its not an easy answer, Em, Jane said heavily. There wasnt a shred of love for your father. In fact, I almost despised him.
Emily recoiled at the blunt admission. Shed suspected as much, but to hear it was a shock. Her shoulders tensed as she fought for composure.
So, what happened? she blurted, emotions rising. Did someone force you? Did your family insist?
Jane finally met Emilys gaze, a fleeting, bitter smile crossing her lipsgone so swiftly Emily nearly missed it.
Quite the oppositethey were completely against it, she said quietly. My mother couldnt fathom why I would so suddenly agree to marry a man Id shown so little interest in before. She tried everything to stop me. Especially since Nicholas was courting me at the time. And he was truly a remarkable suitor by any measure.
Jane ran a finger along her teacups rim, lost briefly in thought. Revealing all this to Emily was far from easy, but for some reason, today she felt the weight of those old memories pressing on her, demanding release. Perhaps it was the photographs.
You see, love, Ive always had one dreadful flaw: I cant bear being told what to do, she began quietly, searching for the right words. If anyone gives me an ultimatum, I will alwaysalwaysact against it, even to my own detriment. My parents knew this, so they never pressured me, always gave choices. But the man I cherished didnt understand that or perhaps refused to understand.
Jane fell silent, staring out at the first silent flakes of snow falling into the wintry dusk. The memory haunted her. If only shed paused to thinkif only she hadnt needed so much to prove her independence. But she chose to show everyone that no one could dictate her lifeeven if it cost her her future.
With that one decision, she ruined three lives: her own, the man she loved, and the unfortunate man she married. Even at the time, shed realised their marriage was doomed, but pride it wouldnt let her turn back.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Jane sat at the rustic kitchen table, her chin resting on her hand, utterly transfixed by Nicholas. He moved about the kitchen with effortless skill and confidence; it was as if a Michelin-starred chef had wandered into her parents home. His knife danced, turning simple carrots and potatoes into perfect cubes, and heady aromas mingled in the air, growing ever more inviting.
Jane instinctively wanted to jump up and helpdecades of tradition whispered that the kitchen was hers to command. Cookings a womans work, she scolded herself, half-standing already. But each time she started to speak, Nicholas would stop her, warm but firm: Sit tight. This is my domain. Just relax and enjoy yourself.
And so she stayed put, watching as something miraculous emerged out of the most ordinary ingredients. Not only had he mastered the kitchenhe had poured his soul into every movement.
We run a family restaurant, Nicholas explained, laughing at Janes astonishment. Of course I learned to cookmy mothers a legend. I grew up under her feet in the kitchen. I was quite a prodigy, if I do say so myself! Just waitonce you taste this, youll be asking for seconds!
His eyes sparkled with pride and contentment; he clearly relished the process, making the moment feel warm and intimate.
Half an hour later, Jane was left with an empty plate, fighting the urge to lick it clean. The meal was extraordinary: each flavour clear, everything blending into something novel and deeply satisfying.
Jane leaned back in her chair and gazed at Nicholas with genuine admiration.
That was absolutely divine, she said, her voice trembling with delight. Ive never tasted anything like that in my life. Youre a magician! How do you conjure masterpieces from humble food?
Nicholas grinned as he took the seat opposite, delighted by her reaction.
Its all down to love for the craft and a touch of imagination, he shrugged. Good produce is vital too. But your praise is my real rewardso glad you enjoyed it. Someday, you must come to our restaurant. Theres true magic there!
Jane laughed, her face alight with pleasure, and drew her coffee cup to her lips, savouring a sip as the scent of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the warm kitchen air.
Ill hold you to that! she grinned. So, do you plan to take over the family business? Will you be in the kitchen?
Nicholass face turned thoughtful, weighing the words. Eventually, he shook his head, determination in his voice.
NoI have bigger plans! Were opening another place, closer to London in a lovely spa town. Weve found a brilliant spot; its being renovated now. Ill be the manager. Its going to be a sensation, Im telling you.
He spoke with such passion that Jane could picture it all: the airy dining room, panoramic windows overlooking the hills, beaming guests, a festive, welcoming atmosphere. But as Nicholas finished, a shadow of unease crept into Janes heart.
So youre going to leave? she asked quietly. Twisting the gold ring on her fingerNicholass engagement presentoffered little comfort as her nerves tangled. What about me? Do you want to leave me behind?
Nicholas paused, clearly caught off guard. How could she think that? Didnt she know he loved her more than anything, would do anything for her? Everythingthe move, the new restaurantwas for them, for her, for their future.
Why would you think that? he said, wounded. Youre coming with me! Theres already a wonderful flat being preparedright by the park, great for young families. Thats where well marrythe countryside is stunning. And dont fret about university; Ill help you transfer, and the one theres even better!
He spoke quickly, anxious, keen to reassure her and paint a vision of their life together. Surely shed be overjoyed; wasnt this a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity?
Jane didnt argue, but inside, emotions swirled. She pressed her fingers into the tablecloth, trying to steady herself. Of course, it made sensea new city, a top university, a ready-made future But something inside her screamed in protest.
So youve already decided everything? Without asking? she said, her words carefully chosen. You expect me to drop everything, my family, my friends, and just follow you into the unknown?
She fell silent, staring at the shifting clouds outside. Her mind whirled with images: bidding her parents goodbye, explaining herself to lifelong friends, abandoning everything familiar for the sake of what, exactly?
Nicholas at last found his voice. He leaned forward, palms on the table, looking at Jane earnestly.
Jane, I didnt mean it like thatI just wanted to share the plan, to show theres a future for us! I thought youd be thrilled.
His pleading only made Jane bristle further, feeling that her wishes simply didnt count. In his excitement, hed failed to see that she wanted to be part of the decision, not a spectator.
Im not thrilled! she spat. Youve made the choice for me! What next? Am I to obey your every whim? Forget it!
Jane! What are you talking about? Nicholass confusion was genuine, and the heat of his voice spilled over. Youd have the sea, fresh air, the perfect town to liveits paradise!
He tried, with all his heart, to paint the vision he cherished: winding lanes, ocean breezes, their sunlight-filled flat with a view of the sea. How could she not want that?
But Jane was beyond reasoning. The more she thought of leaving, the more she resented that the decision had been made for her. She stood abruptly, knocking her coffee across the dazzling white tablecloth, leaving a spreading brown stain.
It doesnt matter whether its good or bad! Youve decided everything for me! she shouted, shaking with anger. I wont do it! No one will dictate my lifeno one!
Her voice trembled with fierce pride. At that moment, it wasnt about the place or the plan; it was about her right to decide.
Jane Nicholas stood, arms out as if to comfort her, utterly lost. Hed only wanted to bring joy, but now watched everything unravel. Lets talk this through. I never meant to hurt you
But Jane wouldnt listen. Words caught in her throat, tears brimming in her eyes. To her, now, it meant her feelings didnt matter.
I said what I said, she snapped, her tone icy though she trembled inside.
In one swift motion she pulled off her gold ringthe engagement gift Nicholas had given herheld it a moment, then hurled it at the wall. It struck the plaster with a sharp ring and bounced along the floor
Back home, curled up in her favourite chair by the window, Jane finally let herself breathe. She closed her eyes, slow and deep. In the cooling quiet, a bitter realisation dawnedshed made a monumental mistake. Nicholas hadnt meant to hurt her; all his plans had been for their happiness. It was the chance of a lifetime! Why had she thrown it all away?
But as soon as the memory returnedNicholas deciding without her, telling her how to livethe old, stubborn anger flared. If he dictates now, what comes next? she thought. Will he decide my work, my friends, every choice? The prospect chilled her. Better to bear pain now, she insisted, than feel caged for a lifetime. In time, she convinced herself, the feelings would fade, and at least shed be free.
Months dragged on. Still hurting from the breakup, Jane crossed paths with Andrewa long-standing admirer, always gentle, never pushy. Once he learned she was no longer with Nicholas, his interest intensified. He didnt hide that beating Nicholas, the wealthy rival, sweetened the deal. Jane, feeling lost and alone, saw Andrews proposal as a way to start fresh, to prove to herselfand othersthat she could be happy without Nicholas
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
And thats how I married the first man who came along, Jane finished quietly, her eyes far away. Your father never really thought about our life together, she sighed. Within a year, the arguments began. Beneath the easy manner was a stubborn, often harsh man, totally unwilling to compromise. After seven years together, we divorcedit became impossible to live in peace.
Emily listened in silence, her face full of compassion and a desperate longing to understand.
Why do you say your mistake made three people unhappy? she asked gently. Did Nicholas never move on?
I dont know whether he ever did, Jane said, voice soft. But I saw: he suffered. We both did. And Andrew he was miserable too. Thought marriage would fix things, prove something to himself. In the end, he found only disappointment. Three people lost what could have been happiness, in their own ways.
Jane spoke quietly, each word deliberate. No bitterness nowjust a weary, matter-of-fact acceptance that the past had shaped her.
Nicholas left, built a real empire. He runs a chain of restaurants nowvery respected. But the lively, generous young man I knew grew into someone reserved, a touch hard. It serves him in business, I suppose but in life, its been an obstacle.
She paused, her mind drifting back to rare meetings across the years. She pictured him as he was now: tall, trim, a harsh set about the lips, chilly eyesnot the warm, vibrant young man she remembered.
He married twice, Jane went on, but neither marriage lasted a year. All his tenderness goes to his only son. With the boy, hes patient and loving. But relationships with women they never work out.
She hesitated, then added, barely looking at Emily, Both of his wives resembled me in every wayheight, hair, build. His friend once told me Nicholas never stopped loving me. But I have no right to meddle now. Too much time has passed
Emily absorbed every word, a storm of thoughts brewing, questions she couldnt voice. She ached thinking how much better things could have turned out. Her mother, clever, strong, capable of deep love, might have found real happinessand given it in return to Nicholas, who, it seemed, still loved her after all those years.
But Emily knew her mother would never reach out first. That unyielding streakthe same trait that had torn them apartstill wouldnt let her admit her mistake, not to others, not even to Nicholas. Jane, deep down, might know shed erred. But to voice it would be to show weakness, something shed never learned to do.
Jane straightened, as if discarding her melancholy, and turned to her daughter.
You know, she said, slightly brighter, I cant say I regret everything. Yes, it hurt; yes, my dreams went another way. But Ive lived my life. I have you, and thats the greatest thing of all.
Outside, dusk had settled. The flat glowed with warm light, the same homely comfort that had always, for Emily, meant home. She got up, crossed the kitchen, and wrapped her mother in a tight hug. Jane stiffened, just for a moment, before returning the embrace, pressing her daughter close.
In that moment, both understood: the past was behind them, where it belonged, and ahead lay only the future they would facetogether.
