One Fateful Day: My Wife Unexpectedly Crossed Paths with a New Woman. How Did That Meeting Unfold?

Author Harlan CovingtonReading 2 minViews 2

27 March 2023

My marriage ended a few months ago, and I’ve since moved into a modest flat in Croydon. Martha and I remain on amicable terms, and we still share a few responsibilities. Over a month ago she stopped by my new place early one morning to retrieve something from the laptop we once owned together.

I wasnt alone that day. Emma, a charming young woman considerably younger than Martha, was staying over. We had begun seeing each other well before the divorce was finalised.

When Martha entered the flat, Emma emerged from the bathroom wrapped only in a towel, her slender frame plainly visible. She passed Martha and, without missing a beat, said,

Good morning, Martha.

Good morning, Emma, Martha replied.

Both women froze for a heartbeat, then Emma, blushing, muttered, Well, I doubt Ill be getting any more credit for that. They burst into loud laughter, and I stood there feeling like a complete fool, watching them. The next day Emma received the credit automatically, much to our amusement.

Now I sit worrying that, God forbid, the two might become friends. Should I be concerned, or will everything settle down in due course?

Lesson: trying to control the feelings of others only keeps you chained to needless anxiety; sometimes you have to let the situation run its course and trust that honesty will sort itself out.

“When Was the Last Time You Truly Looked at Yourself in the Mirror?” he asked. His Wife’s Surprising Response Changed Everything Alex sipped his morning coffee, stealing glances at Marina. Her hair was tied back with a child’s hairband, decorated with cartoon kittens. Next door, Ksenia always seemed vibrant and fresh, her expensive perfume lingering in the lift. “You know,” Alex put his phone down, “sometimes I feel like we live together… well, more like neighbours.” Marina paused, cleaning rag frozen in her hand. “What do you mean?” “Oh, nothing. Just… when did you last really look at yourself in the mirror?” She looked at him closely. Alex realised things weren’t going as he expected. “When was the last time you looked at me?” Marina replied softly. An awkward pause hung between them. “Marina, don’t make this a drama. I just mean—a woman should always look amazing. It’s basic! Look at Ksenia, and she’s your age.” “Ah,” Marina said. “Ksenia.” Her tone made Alex uneasy, as if something important had suddenly dawned on her. “Alex,” she said after a moment, “let’s do this. I’ll move in with Mum for a bit. Think about what you said.” “Fine. We’ll live separately, think things through. But I’m not throwing you out!” “You know,” Marina hung the rag carefully on a hook, “maybe I really do need to look in the mirror.” She went to pack her suitcase. Alex sat in the kitchen, thinking: “This is what I wanted.” But somehow, it didn’t feel satisfying—more empty than anything. For three days, Alex lived in a kind of holiday: coffee in the morning, no rush, evenings doing what he liked. No melodramatic TV shows. Freedom, right? Real, man’s freedom. One evening, Alex bumped into Ksenia by the block entrance. She carried bags from Waitrose, tottering in heels and a perfect dress. “Alex!” she smiled. “How are you? Haven’t seen Marina lately.” “She’s at her mum’s. Taking a break,” he lied easily. “Ah.” Ksenia nodded knowingly. “Women need a respite now and then. From housework, from routine.” She spoke as if she’d never set foot in household drudgery herself, as if dinner just materialised. “Ksenia, maybe we could grab coffee sometime? Just as neighbours.” “That’d be lovely,” she smiled. “Tomorrow night?” Alex spent the night planning. Which shirt? Jeans or chinos? Don’t overdo the aftershave. In the morning the phone rang. “Alex?” Came an unfamiliar voice. “It’s Ludmila, Marina’s mum.” His heart skipped a beat. “Yes, I’m listening.” “Marina asked me to say she’ll pick up her things on Saturday when you’re out. She’ll leave the keys with the concierge.” “Wait, she’s picking up her things?” “What did you expect?” There was steel in the mother-in-law’s voice. “My daughter isn’t going to spend her life waiting for you to decide if you need her.” “I didn’t say anything like that—” “You said quite enough. Goodbye, Alex.” She hung up. Alex sat at the kitchen table, staring at his phone. What the hell? He wasn’t getting divorced! He’d just asked for a break—to think. They’d decided everything without him. Coffee with Ksenia felt strange. She was pleasant, chatted about her banking job, laughed at his jokes. But when he tried to take her hand, she gently pulled away. “Alex, understand—I can’t. You’re married.” “But we’re… well, living apart now.” “For now. What about tomorrow?” Ksenia looked at him, searching. Alex walked Ksenia home and went back to his quiet, bachelor-smelling flat. Saturday. Alex deliberately left, to avoid drama or tears. Let her take her things in peace. By three o’clock he was jittery with curiosity. What did she take? Everything? Just essentials? And how did she look? At four he couldn’t stand it and went home. Outside was a car with local plates. At the wheel, a man around forty, good-looking, in a nice jacket, helping someone load boxes. Alex sat on a bench and waited. Ten minutes later, out stepped a woman in a blue dress. Her dark hair was in a beautiful clip—no childish hairbands. Her makeup highlighted her eyes. Alex stared in disbelief. It was Marina. But different. She carried the last bag. The man instantly helped her, gently seating her in the car—handling her like crystal. Alex couldn’t help himself. He walked up to the car. “Marina!” She turned. Her face was calm and beautiful. Not tired as he remembered. “Hello, Alex.” “Is that… you?” The man at the wheel tensed, but Marina softly assured him it was fine. “Yes,” she answered simply. “You just haven’t really looked at me in a long time.” “Marina, wait. Can we talk?” “About what?” No anger in her voice, just surprise. “You said a woman should look amazing. So I listened.” “But that’s not what I meant!” Alex’s heart was pounding. “What did you want, Alex?” Marina tilted her head. “For me to become beautiful, just for you? Interesting, but only at home? To love myself, but not so much that I’d leave a husband who couldn’t see me?” He listened, and with every word, something inside him shifted. “You know,” Marina said gently, “I realised I’d stopped caring for myself. But not because I was lazy—because I’d got used to being invisible in my own house, my own life.” “Marina, I didn’t mean—” “You did. You wanted an invisible wife—who does everything, but doesn’t get in your way. And when you’re bored, you trade up for a brighter model.” The man in the car said something quietly. Marina nodded. “We have to go, Alex. Vladimir’s waiting.” “Vladimir?” Alex’s mouth went dry. “Who’s that?” “A man who sees me.” Marina answered. “We met at the gym—Mum’s flat is near a fitness centre. Imagine, at forty-two I went to my first ever workout class.” “Marina, don’t. Let’s try again. I get it now—I was an idiot.” “Alex,” she looked at him carefully, “do you remember the last time you said I was beautiful?” He fell silent. He couldn’t remember. “The last time you asked how I was?” And Alex realised—he’d lost. Not to Vladimir, nor circumstances. To himself. Vladimir started the engine. “Alex, I’m not angry. Really. Thanks to you, I understood something important: if I can’t see myself, no one else will.” The car drove away. Alex sat on the bench and watched his life leave—not just his wife, but the last fifteen years he’d considered routine, and now understood was happiness. He just hadn’t realised it before. Six months later, Alex bumped into Marina at the shopping centre—by chance. She was picking out coffee beans, reading labels carefully. Next to her, a young woman—about twenty. “Let’s get this one,” she said. “Dad says arabica’s better than robusta.” “Marina?” Alex approached. She turned and smiled easily. “Hello, Alex. Meet Nastya, Vladimir’s daughter. Nastya, this is Alex, my ex-husband.” Nastya nodded politely—pretty, probably a uni student. She looked at Alex curiously, with no hostility. “How are you?” he asked. “Good. And you?” “Not bad.” An awkward pause. What do you say to an ex-wife who’s changed so much? They stood amidst the coffee shelves, and Alex looked at her—tanned, new haircut, light blouse. Happy—genuinely happy. “And you?” she asked. “How’s your love life?” “Not much happening,” he admitted. Marina looked at him thoughtfully. “You want a woman—beautiful like Ksenia, quiet like I used to be. Smart, but not so smart she’ll notice the way you look at others.” Nastya listened wide-eyed. “That woman doesn’t exist,” Marina said calmly. “Marina, let’s go?” Nastya chimed in. “Dad’s waiting in the car.” “Yes, of course.” Marina grabbed the coffee. “Good luck, Alex.” They walked off. Alex stood amid coffee shelves, thinking: Marina was right. He was searching for a woman who didn’t exist. That evening Alex sat in his kitchen, drank tea. Remembered Marina, who she’d become. Sometimes, losing something is the only way to realise how valuable it was. Maybe happiness isn’t about finding the ‘perfect wife’. It’s about learning to see the woman beside you.

00

My Son Isn’t Ready to Be a Father… “You Shameless Girl! Ungrateful Pig!” Natalie’s mother shrieked at her, not caring who heard. Her daughter’s rounded belly did nothing to soften her fury—if anything, it only fueled it. “Get out of my house and never come back! I never want to see you again!” This time, she meant it. Although her mother had thrown her out before over less serious matters, this pregnancy was the last straw. Tear-stained and clutching a small suitcase with her few belongings, Natalie stumbled to her boyfriend—a bewildered teenager who hadn’t even told his parents she was expecting. Nazar’s mother, upon discovering the news, immediately asked whether it was too late to do anything. But it clearly was; Natalie’s pregnancy was undeniable. “You’re just not ready to be a father,” Nazar’s mother declared, her voice firm. “You’re too young, she’ll ruin your whole life. We’ll help, of course, but for now, I’ve organised a place for you at a rehabilitation centre—a shelter for pregnant girls with nowhere to go.” At the centre, Natalie finally found a little peace. She was given a small room, support from a psychologist, and the first opportunity to rest in a long time. When she finally held her baby daughter in her arms, panic struck. But slowly, as Christmas approached, love began to grow. Just as she recovered, the centre warned her that she’d have to move on—a new arrival needed her room. Alone with her month-old baby Eve, Natalie wondered what to do next. Her own mother refused to even look at her or her granddaughter, having wiped both from her life. “It’s so sad, little one—what a gloomy Christmas Eve this is for us,” Natalie whispered, remembering happier days. As a child, she’d loved carolling, darting from house to house, singing Christmas songs and earning pocket money. The thought struck her: maybe she could carol again. Wrapping Eve up warmly, she set off. Knocking on doors, Natalie found few people willing to open up to a lone woman with a baby—most expected groups of children or men. But when she did get inside, her heartfelt carols moved people. They gave her generous tips—and even food—often becoming teary at the sight of the tiny baby in her arms, recognising that she must be desperate to go carolling as a single mum. The streets were cold and the journey tough, but Natalie pressed on. “Just one more house,” she said, eyeing a grand villa that looked promising. She was let in, but the homeowner’s reaction stunned her. He stared at her face, looked at her baby, and suddenly sat down heavily on the sofa, pale as a sheet. “Hope?” he asked quietly. “I’m sorry? I’m Natalie… Perhaps you’ve confused me with someone else?” “You look so much like my late wife… and your baby, is she a girl?” “Yes.” “I had a daughter once… but I lost them both in a car crash. Just the other night, I dreamed they came home. And now—you—you’re here, just like in my dream.” Unsure what to say, Natalie hesitated, but the man gently invited her in and asked to hear her story. Soon, Natalie found herself sharing everything—her troubles, her fears, her daughter’s birth—with someone who truly listened. As the baby slept, occasionally smiling in her sleep, Natalie felt, perhaps for the first time, that they’d finally found somewhere they just might belong—a place that could become home.

00

— You Don’t Need to Sit at the Table. You’ll Serve Us! — My Mother-in-Law Declared. I stood by the stove in the quiet morning kitchen, wrinkled pyjamas on, hair tied up carelessly. The scent of toast and strong coffee filled the air. My 7-year-old daughter was perched on a stool, nose buried in her colouring book, drawing careful swirls with felt tips. “Making those healthy toasts again?” came a voice behind me. I jumped. My mother-in-law stood in the doorway—her face set in stone, voice brooking no argument, curls gathered in a stern bun and lips pursed, her dressing gown immaculate. “I had whatever I fancied for lunch yesterday!” she continued, snapping her tea towel at the edge of the table. “No soup, nothing proper. Can you cook eggs? Proper eggs, not your fancy modern fads!” I turned off the hob and opened the fridge, swallowing my anger. Not in front of my daughter. Not in a space that echoed: “You’re only here temporarily.” “It’ll be ready soon,” I managed, turning so she wouldn’t see how my voice trembled. My daughter didn’t lift her gaze from her pens, but watched Granny from the corner of her eye—quiet, wary, alert. “Let’s Just Stay With My Mum for a Bit” When my husband suggested moving in with his mum, it sounded… rational. “We’ll just stay a little while—two months max. It’s close to work, our mortgage should come through soon. She’s fine with it.” I hesitated. Not because I fought with my mother-in-law—we were always polite. But I knew the truth: Two grown women in one kitchen? That’s a minefield. His mum lived for order, control and moral verdicts. But we had no choice—our old flat sold quickly and the new one wasn’t ready yet. So, all three of us moved into her two-bedroom apartment. “Just temporary.” Living Under Her Rules The first few days, she was pointedly polite—set out an extra chair for our daughter, even served pie. By day three, the rules began. “In my house there is order,” she announced at breakfast. “We get up at eight. Shoes stay on the rack. Every food item is checked with me. And the TV’s quiet—I have sensitive hearing.” My husband just smiled and waved it off: “Mum, we’re only here for a bit. We can cope.” I nodded quietly. “Cope” started to sound more like a sentence. Disappearing Bit by Bit A week passed. Then another. Her regime grew stricter. My daughter’s drawings were cleared off the table: “In the way.” She removed my checkered tablecloth: “Impractical.” My cornflakes vanished from the shelf: “Old—probably off.” My shampoos were “relocated”: “Cluttering the place.” Soon, I felt more like a mute housekeeper than a guest. My food was “not right.” My routines were “unnecessary.” My child was “too loud.” And my husband kept saying: “Just put up with it. It’s Mum’s flat. She’s always like this.” Day by day, I disappeared. I was no longer the calm, confident woman I’d been. Just endless adapting. Endless enduring. Living By Rules That Aren’t Mine Every morning, I got up at six to claim the bathroom, cook porridge, get my child ready and avoid my mother-in-law’s ire. Each evening, I made two dinners: One for us. One “by standard” for her. No onions. Then, with onions. Then only in her saucepan. Then only with her frying pan. “I don’t ask much,” she’d say with sharpness. “Just do things properly. The way they should be done.” The Day the Humiliation Went Public One morning, just after I’d washed my face and switched on the kettle, she marched into the kitchen. “My friends are coming round today. At two o’clock. You’re at home, so you’ll lay the table. Pickled gherkins, salad, something for tea—the usual.” Her “usual” meant a spread fit for a celebration. “Oh… I didn’t know. The ingredients…” “You’ll shop. I’ve made you a list. Nothing complicated.” So I dressed, went shopping. Bought everything: Chicken, potatoes, dill, apples for pie, biscuits… Back home, I cooked non-stop. By two, the table sparkled; chicken roasted, salad crisp, pie golden. Three pensioners arrived—hairset and perfumes from another era. Instantly, I knew I wasn’t “part of the company.” I was “the help.” “Come on, sit with us,” my mother-in-law smiled. “To serve us.” “To serve you?” I repeated. “What’s the harm? We’re old, you’re young.” So there I was: Tray in hand, ladles, bread. “Pour the tea.” “Pass the sugar.” “We’re out of salad.” “The chicken’s dry,” muttered one. “Pie’s overbaked,” complained another. I gritted my teeth, smiled, cleared plates, poured tea. No one asked if I wanted to sit. Or take a breath. “How lovely to have a young housewife!” my mother-in-law announced with fake warmth. “Everything depends on her!” And in that moment… something broke inside me. That Night I Spoke the Truth After everyone had left, I washed every dish, packed away leftovers, washed the tablecloth. Then I sat at the edge of the sofa, empty cup in hand. Outside, darkness fell. My child slept, curled up tight. My husband sat beside me, glued to his phone. “Listen…” I said quietly, firmly. “I can’t do this anymore.” He looked up, surprised. “We live like strangers. I’m just here to serve everyone. And you… do you even see it?” He didn’t answer. “This isn’t a home. It’s a life where I constantly bend and stay silent. I’m here with our child. I don’t want to endure months more. I’m done being convenient and invisible.” He nodded… slowly. “I understand… I’m sorry I didn’t notice sooner. We’ll start flat hunting. Anything, so long as it’s ours.” We began looking that very evening. Our Home – No Matter How Small The flat was poky. The landlord left old furniture. The floor creaked. But when I crossed the threshold… I felt free. Like I finally had my own voice. “There we are,” my husband sighed, dropping the bags. My mother-in-law didn’t say a word. Didn’t stop us. I don’t know if she was hurt, or just understood. A week passed. Mornings began with music. My daughter drew on the floor. My husband made coffee. I watched it all and smiled. No stress. No rushing. No more “just cope.” “Thank you,” he said one morning, wrapping me in his arms. “For speaking up.” I looked him in the eyes: “Thank you for listening.” Life wasn’t perfect now. But it was our home. Our rules. Our noise. Our life. And it was real. ❓And what about you: If you were in her shoes, would you stick it out “just for a while,” or pack your bags after the first week?

05

Valerie Was Doing the Washing Up in the Kitchen When John Walked In—But Only After Switching Off the Light. “It’s Still Bright Enough, No Need to Waste Electricity,” He Grumbled. “I Was Going to Use the Washing Machine,” Said Valerie. “Do It Tonight, When the Electricity’s Cheaper,” John Replied Sharply. “And Don’t Run the Tap So Hard. You Waste Far Too Much Water—Far Too Much. Surely You Understand You’re Just Flushing Our Money Down the Drain?” He Turned Down the Tap. Valerie Looked at Her Husband with Sadness, Dried Her Hands, and Sat at the Table. “John, Have You Ever Looked at Yourself From the Outside?” She Asked. “Every Day,” He Snapped Back. “And What Do You See?” She Continued. “As a Man?” He Clarified. “As a Husband and a Father.” “Average, I Guess,” He Responded. “Neither Better nor Worse Than the Rest. Why Are You Nagging?” “Do You Really Think All Husbands and Fathers Are Like You?” Valerie Asked. “Are You Picking a Fight?” John Shot Back. Valerie Knew There Was No Turning Back—This Conversation Needed to Happen Until He Finally Understood Living With Him Was Pure Misery. “Do You Know Why You’ve Never Left Me, John?” She Asked. “Why Should I Leave You?” He Retorted. “Because You Don’t Love Me. Or Our Children.” John Tried to Shoot Back, But She Continued. “And Don’t Say Otherwise. You Don’t Love Anyone. And I Won’t Argue—No Point Wasting Time. I Want to Talk About Why You Haven’t Left Me and the Kids.” “Well? Why Not?” “Because of Your Stinginess—Because You’re So Incredibly Tight-Fisted That You See Leaving Us As a Financial Disaster. How Many Years Together? Fifteen? What Have We Achieved? Apart From the Obvious—Getting Married and Having Kids. What Achievements in Fifteen Years?” “We’ve Still Got Our Whole Lives Ahead,” John Said. “No, John. Not Our Whole Lives—Just What’s Left. In All Our Time Together, We’ve Never Once Had a Holiday by the Sea, Not Even in Britain. Always in the City. Not Even a Day Out for Foraging. Why? Because It’s ‘Too Expensive.’” “Because We’re Saving for Our Future!” John Insisted. “We? Or You? Every Month You Take All the Money and Squirrel It Away ‘for the Family.’ Really? Our Account? Let’s Check—Give Me Some Money for Clothes for Me and the Kids. It’s Been Fifteen Years Since I Bought Anything New—Still Wearing My Old Wedding Outfit and Hand-Me-Downs From Your Brother’s Wife. So Do the Kids. And I Want to Rent a Flat—Tired of Living in Your Mum’s Place.” “Mum’s Given Us Two Rooms, You Shouldn’t Complain. And As for Clothes, Why Waste Money? The Kids Can Wear What Their Cousins Outgrew.” “What About Me? Whose Cast-Offs Should I Wear—Your Brother’s Wife’s?” “Who Are You Dressing Up For?” John Sneered. “You’re a Mum of Two, You’re 35! You Shouldn’t Worry About Outfits.” “And What Should I Worry About?” “The Meaning of Life. Your Spiritual Growth is More Important Than Clothes, Flats, or All That ‘Women’s Rubbish.’” “So That’s Why You Keep All the Money to Yourself—for Our ‘Bright Future,’ So We Can Grow Spiritually?” “Because I Can’t Trust You—You’d Spend It All! How Would We Survive if Anything Happened?” “And When Exactly Will We Start ‘Living,’ John? Haven’t You Noticed We Already Live As If the Worst Has Happened—Scrimping on Everything, Even Soap and Toilet Paper, Stealing Hand Cream From Work—‘Every Penny Counts.’ Tell Me, How Much Longer Must We Endure? Ten Years More? Twenty? How Old Do I Have to Be Before We Can Finally Afford Decent Toilet Paper?” John Stayed Silent. Valerie Guessed, “Forty? No, Too Soon! Fifty? Still Too Soon? Sixty, Maybe? Or Will We Just Never Start Living At All?” Still Silence. “You Know What, John? What If We Don’t Make It to Sixty? We Eat So Much Cheap Rubbish Because You’re So Tight, and We’re Always Miserable—Don’t You Know That Miserable People Don’t Live Long? But Even If We Moved Out and Ate Properly, You Couldn’t Save Your Precious Money.” “Exactly,” Said Valerie. “That’s Why I’m Leaving—I’m Done With Constant Saving. I Don’t Want This Any More. You Can Keep Saving—I Won’t.” “How Will You Live?” John Was Horrified. “I’ll Manage—Rent My Own Place, Buy Clothes and Food, and Most of All, I Won’t Have to Endure Your Lectures on Penny-Pinching. I’ll Use the Washing Machine in the Day, Buy Nice Toilet Paper and Napkins, Shop Without Waiting for Sales, and Yes, I’ll Spend Every Penny—Even Your Maintenance Payments. I’ll Drop the Kids at Yours on Weekends and Go to Theatres, Restaurants, and By the Summer, I’ll Have a Seaside Holiday—Haven’t Decided Where Yet, But I Will.” John Felt Terrified—Not for Her or the Kids, But for Himself. What Would Be Left After Child Support? Especially If She Started Travelling and Spending ‘His’ Money? “One More Thing,” Valerie Said. “The Joint Account You Guard So Jealously—We’ll Split It. Half Each. And I’ll Spend My Share, Too. Every Penny. When My Time Comes, I Want My Account at Zero—That’s How I’ll Know I Truly Lived for Myself.” Two Months Later, John and Valerie Were Divorced.

04

Even 30 Years of Marriage Is No Reason to Put Up With Infidelity Elena turned a small velvet box over in her hands—the fabric worn, the gold letters faded. Inside, three tiny sapphires glittered. Beautiful stones, she had to admit. “Five hundred,” said Oliver, scrolling through his tablet. “Bought it at Goldsmiths with my loyalty card.” “Thank you, darling.” Something clenched in her chest, and not at the price. What were finances at their age? It was the tone—so casual, as if he were reporting on buying milk. Thirty years married. Their Pearl Anniversary—rare these days. Elena had risen early, laid out the lace-trimmed tablecloth—her mother-in-law’s wedding gift—and started baking a “Bird’s Milk” cake, the one Oliver used to call “a slice of heaven.” Now he sat glued to his screen, barely grunting at her questions. “Oliver, do you remember how you promised to take me to Italy for our thirtieth?” “Hmm,” not looking up. “I thought, perhaps, at least we could visit Cornwall together? It’s been a while since we had a getaway.” “Elena, I’ve got a project. Not now.” Always a project. Especially in the last year and a half, when Oliver suddenly became obsessed with youth—joined a gym, bought pricey trainers, changed his wardrobe. Even got a fashionable haircut—fringe to the side, shaved temples. “Midlife crisis,” her friend Sarah had said. “All men go through it. It’ll pass.” It hadn’t. It only got worse. Elena slipped the ring on—perfect fit. After all these years he at least knew her size. The stones sparkled with a cold kind of shine. “Lovely,” she repeated, inspecting it. “Yes. Trendy setting. Youthful style.” Over dinner, they sat in near silence. The cake was as usual—soft, light. Oliver nibbled a slice, complimented it automatically. Elena watched him and wondered: when had her husband become a stranger? “And who’s this woman?” she asked suddenly. “What woman?” Oliver finally looked up. “The one who picked this ‘youthful’ ring.” “What’s she got to do with it?” “Oliver,” she said evenly, “I’m not stupid. A woman chose it. No man says ‘youthful style.’” The pause was long. Awkward. “Elena, don’t be ridiculous.” “Is her name Alice?” Oliver paled. Didn’t even ask how she knew, which meant she was right. “I saw your messages, by accident. Last month, when you asked me to find the insurance number in your phone. ‘Sunshine, see you soon’—ring a bell?” He was silent. “Twenty-eight. Works at your office. Yesterday, she posted a photo from that restaurant—your favourite table by the window. I recognise the tablecloth.” “How did you know about the restaurant?” “Sarah saw you. By chance. People talk in this town.” Oliver sighed heavily. “Fine. Yes, there is Alice. But it’s not what you think.” “And what is it?” “She gets me. She’s easy to be with. We talk about books, movies.” “And you can’t talk with me?” “Elena, look at yourself! You complain about the kids, your health, prices in the shops. With Alice I feel alive.” “Alive,” Elena repeated. “I see.” “I never meant to hurt you.” Oliver hung his head. “Does she know you’re married?” “She does.” “Doesn’t mind dating a married man?” “Elena, she’s a modern woman. She doesn’t have any illusions.” “Modern,” Elena scoffed. “Thirty years with you—is that an illusion?” She stood, began clearing up. Hands shaking, though she tried not to show it. “Elena, let’s talk sensibly.” “There’s nothing to talk about. You’ve made your choice.” “I haven’t chosen anyone!” “You have. Every day you choose: coming home late, pretending to be away on business, buying her gifts with our money.” “Our money!” “Mine too—I work as well, in case you forgot.” Elena washed up, loaded the rack. Folded away the lace tablecloth. Everything as usual. Only her hands kept trembling. “Elena, what do you want?” Oliver asked from the kitchen doorway. “I want to be alone. Tonight. To think.” “And tomorrow?” “I don’t know.” She didn’t speak for two days. Oliver tried to talk, but got only polite one-word replies. On day three, he cracked. “How long will this go on?” “What’s wrong with it?” Elena asked while ironing his shirt. “I do everything—cooking, cleaning, laundry. Just as always.” “But you’re not talking!” “You’ve got Alice for that.” “Elena!” “What? You said yourself—I’m boring, we’ve nothing to talk about. Why force it?” He left that evening, said he was off to see friends. Elena knew better—he was going to her. She browsed Alice’s profile online: pretty, young, photos from fancy resorts, trendy clothes, champagne in hand. A recent post: “Life is beautiful when you’re with someone who truly appreciates you.” Tags: love, happiness, mature man. Mature man. Elena smirked—as if he was just a product feature. Comments from friends underneath: “Alice, when’s the wedding?”, “Lucky you!”, “What will his wife say?” Alice replied: “Their marriage is just formal. They’re like neighbours.” Thirty years—like neighbours. Next morning Elena booked a solicitor. A young man with glasses listened kindly as she told her story. “Right. Shared assets are split equally—flat, cottage, car. If we prove infidelity, you could claim a larger share.” “I don’t need more,” Elena said. “Just what’s fair.” She came home and made her list: Flat—sell and split. Cottage—for him. I won’t go back there. Car—for me. He can get a new one. Bank accounts—shared. Oliver came in late, saw the list. “What’s this?” “Divorce.” “Are you mad?” “No. I’ve finally come to my senses.” “Elena! I told you—it’s just a phase. It’ll pass!” “And if it doesn’t? Am I to wait another thirty years for you to get it out of your system?” Oliver collapsed onto the sofa, palms over his face. “I never meant to hurt you.” “But you did.” “What am I supposed to do now?” “Choose,” Elena said. “Either your family, or Alice. There’s no third option.” For three months they lived truly as neighbours. Oliver took the spare room. Only spoke when necessary. Elena signed up for English classes, swimming, started reading the books she’d always saved for “later.” Alice called now and then, sobbed into the phone. Oliver went onto the balcony, whispering for ages. One night he came home early, sat opposite Elena. “I’ve broken up with her.” “Why do I need to know?” “Elena, I’ve realised. I was an idiot. I made a terrible mistake.” “Agreed.” “Can we try again? I’ve changed.” Elena put down her book. “Oliver, you left Alice not because you value me, but because you got tired of her. The next ‘Alice’ will appear in a year or two.” “It won’t! I promise!” “Oh, it will. Because you’re not losing me—you’re losing youth. And I can’t help that.” “Elena—” “Divorce papers are ready. Sign them.” He did so. No shouting, no arguments about dividing assets. Elena took only what she’d outlined. Six months later, she met Roman—a widower her own age, an English teacher. They met at evening classes. He invited her to the theatre. “You know, Elena,” he said over coffee after the show, “I love talking to you. You’re an outstanding conversationalist.” “Really? My ex-husband always said I was boring.” “Then he clearly wasn’t listening.” Roman listened. He valued her thoughts, laughed at her jokes, and spoke openly, never pretending to be younger than he was. “And what do you look for in a woman?” Elena asked him once. “Intelligence. Kindness. Honesty. What about you in a man?” “Integrity. And someone who’s comfortable with his age.” They laughed. Sometimes Oliver called, sent holiday greetings, asked after her health—like an old acquaintance. “And are you happy?” he asked once. “Yes,” Elena answered without hesitation. “And you?” “I’m not sure. Probably not.” “Well, we all make choices.” She still keeps the ring he bought for five hundred. She doesn’t wear it—it sits in her jewellery box as a reminder of how easily thirty years can be made worthless. Roman gave her an antique brooch for her birthday—a market find, inexpensive, but chosen with love. “Beauty isn’t about money,” he’d said, “It’s about what it means when you give it.” And Elena realised life doesn’t end after fifty. It can begin anew. What do you think? Can you start fresh in your fifties? Share your thoughts in the comments.

017

THE MYSTERIOUS NEW NEIGHBOURS A new couple moved into Flat 222 at Number 8, Byron Street. Middle-aged, maybe in their early fifties, both quite short and slender. He sports a beard and a grey coat; she often wears a long skirt and a colourful beret. They’re polite—always smiling in the lift and holding the door open, especially if someone’s carrying heavy shopping. And, which matters with these modern flats: they’re quiet. At least, that’s how it seemed at first. But after about two weeks, the Smiths from 221 and the Harrisons from 223 started to hear their new neighbours rather distinctly. It soon became the main topic of conversation at family dinner. Here’s what the Smiths—both in their forties and married half their lives—had to say: “Have you seen our new neighbours?” “Yes, we rode together in the lift yesterday.” “What do you think?” “They seem normal enough. Why?” “They’re… very affectionate.” “In what way?” “Well, during the day when everyone’s out, it gets quiet, and you can hear everything. They’ve been playing… erm, adult games. For three days in a row now. Very inventive, too. Like something out of a film.” “Seriously?” “Yes, and with a real sense of drama. It’s amusing until it gets distracting. Honestly, it makes working from home tricky.” “Oh, don’t be a prude; good on them—living it up at their age.” ‘Not like us,’ he thought but dared not say. At the weekend, even Mr Smith found himself an unwilling audience to a “classic” gardener-and-lady-of-the-house scene. Both blushed furiously. ***** As for the Harrisons, the youngest couple on the floor—nearly thirty, five years married, expecting their first child: “Did you see the new couple?” “Yeah, bumped into them in the corridor. Why?” “They’re interesting. She cooks him restaurant-worthy meals, and he showers her with gifts—never a day goes by without one.” “How do you know?” “I go for walks daily, and their kitchen smells divine. I even bumped into him with flowers and a gift bag once, dashing home like it was a date.” “Hmm.” “Maybe they’re not married at all—just lovers?” “No idea, but they definitely live together.” “And they’re always chatting in the kitchen, giggling and laughing if you listen quietly. Just like newlyweds.” “I get it. News is on—I’ll be in the lounge.” That Friday, Mr Harrison ran into the neighbour by the lift—clutching roses, a bottle of red, and looking hopeful for the evening. ***** A month passed. The mysterious neighbours of 222 were firmly established. The Smiths had grown used to the sounds from next door. The couple next door still hadn’t tired of one another; every day something new, or at least sweet sighs and creaking beds. As if they were in a hurry to savour every moment together. One night, Mrs Smith, eyes averted, confessed: “I stopped by the lingerie shop at the centre today—look at what I bought.” She flung open her robe. Mr Smith’s eyes sparkled. “Well,” he said, “I popped into an adult shop the other day—got this. Don’t know if you’ll like it.” “You never know until you try,” she blushed. ***** “Process is underway,” whispered the man in 222, eavesdropping on the Smiths through the wall. ***** Mr Harrison decided to visit the jeweller at lunch—he hadn’t treated his wife in ages. Once, he always had a treat for her tucked in his bag, even if only her favourite chocolate. He spotted his wife in her familiar coat. “Rachel! What are you doing here? This is miles from home.” “Just fancied a walk,” she faltered. “You?” “Got you these earrings. Here—couldn’t resist.” Rachel beamed, kissing him. “Thank you, love! I’m making carbonara with prawns tonight. Remember when I used to make that? They have the best prawns here.” “Mmm, my mouth’s watering just thinking about it.” “Don’t be late; I’ll have it ready by seven.” “Of course,” thought Mr Harrison, ‘better stop for flowers.’ ***** “What’s the update?” asked the man from 222. “She’s cooking something special and they’re off and running,” smiled his wife. ***** A month later, the Smiths were unrecognisable—ten years younger, always catching each other’s eye, just waiting for a moment alone together. Sometimes they’d even sneak away from the kids for a hotel night, relishing every second. Shared interests sprouted, and everything seemed easier. ***** Meanwhile, with the Harrisons about to welcome their first child, they’d rediscovered date nights: cinema, restaurants, art galleries. Rachel had dug out her old recipe book, and every week, Mr Harrison spoiled her with gifts or slipped a favourite chocolate into her bag. He couldn’t remember the last time he watched the news. ***** “So, how are they?” asked the woman from 222. “They’re good—quiet creaks now, must be the kids at home. But everything’s far livelier—I listen in all the time, just to make sure.” “And the other couple?” “They’re happily nest-building, laughing in the kitchen, delicious smells drifting down the hall.” “Brilliant! All done in three months. We’ll stay a few more weeks to seal the results.” “Alright. Who’s next?” “Simmons, Flat 65, Number 4. Next door in 66, a couple overrun by routine—forgotten each other’s names. And the lot in 64—bedroom blues, as usual.” “Understood. I’ll leave your tapes for now, keep things lively. No need to cancel the restaurant deliveries either. There’s still plenty of scented oil left. Oh, and those roses you swapped water for all week—completely wilted. You’ll have to buy a new bouquet.” “Will do. Rub my back, would you? Then let’s get some sleep…”

05

My Husband Was Supporting His Ex with Our Money – So I Gave Him an Ultimatum From the very beginning, I knew about his ex. He was always honest that he’d been married before, that he had a daughter, and that he paid child support. I even thought it was the right thing—admirable, really. I respected him for that responsibility. But eventually, I started to see something far more troubling: what I thought was responsibility was actually a painful, never-ending sense of guilt. Chronic, exhausting, obsessive. A guilt that hung over him like an invisible cloud… and someone skillfully took advantage of it. Child support arrived religiously, the amounts were reasonable. But besides that, there was a whole world of “additional expenses.” She needed a new laptop for school—the old one was slow, and all the kids had something better. My husband sighed… and bought it. She needed to go to a language camp. Without it, she’d fall behind. Again, my husband agreed, even though the cost was the same as our whole summer holiday. Gifts for Christmas, for her birthday, for Mother’s Day, for “just because”… everything had to be the best, the most expensive, the flashiest. Because “Dad has to be the good guy.” His ex-wife knew exactly what to say. She’d call with that slightly suffering tone: “She’ll be upset… you understand? I can’t handle this on my own.” And he always understood. He understood so strongly, he stopped seeing reality—the reality where he lived with me. Where we had plans, dreams, and a future. But the money for our future kept dripping away, drop by drop, poured into a past that clung on and wouldn’t let go. I tried talking to him. “Don’t you think it’s gone too far? She has everything. We haven’t been able to buy a new washing machine for two months. Wake up…” He looked guilt-ridden and said, “She’s a child… I can’t say no. They tell me it’s a tough age. I have to support her.” “And what about my self-worth? Our life?” I asked, more sharply. He looked confused. “Are you jealous? Of a child?” It wasn’t jealousy. It was fairness. We lived in disaster mode—always funding someone else’s “urgent need” that never ended. Our washing machine was on its last legs—rumbling, bouncing, stopping mid-cycle. I dreamed of a normal, quiet machine. I’d saved up from my wages and found one on sale. The day was set. That morning, my husband was strangely silent. Wandering the flat, looking for something on the floor. Just as I grabbed my purse, he said, “I… took the money… for the washing machine.” My fingers went cold. “Took? Where?” “For my daughter. It’s urgent… dental treatment. My ex called last night, in a panic… said the child was in agony, needed a private dentist immediately, and it was expensive… I couldn’t say no…” I leaned against the doorway. “And… did she get treated?” “Yes! Yes!” he brightened, as if the worst was past. “Everything went perfectly. They said it was excellent.” I looked at him for a few seconds… and quietly said, “Call her right now.” “What? Why?” “Call. And ask how your daughter is… and which tooth hurt.” He frowned but dialed. Spoke briefly. And as he listened, I saw his face change—from confidence to discomfort. Hung up. “Well… she’s fine now. Pain’s gone.” “Which tooth?” I repeated. “It doesn’t matter…” “WHICH TOOTH?” My voice came out harsh, almost unrecognizable. He sighed. “They said… it wasn’t pain. It was planned. Whitening. She’s old enough. She’d been waiting a year…” At that moment, I just turned and sat down on the kitchen chair. The money for our normal life… had gone for teeth whitening because someone decided it was necessary. And the worst part? He hadn’t even questioned it. He didn’t check. He just took our money and handed it over. Because guilt is a terrible adviser… but a wonderful tool for emotional blackmail. After that, there was an icy silence at home. I barely spoke to him. He tried to “make up” with small gestures, but it was like dressing a deep wound with an ordinary plaster. I realised—I wasn’t fighting his ex-wife. I was fighting a ghost he carried inside. The ghost of a failed marriage. The troubled feeling that he “didn’t do enough.” That he “had to make up for it.” And this ghost was hungry. Constantly wanting new sacrifices—money, time, nerves, humiliation. The final straw was his daughter’s birthday. I pushed myself and bought a beautiful, quality, but modest book—the same one she’d mentioned in passing. The big presents were from “Mum and Dad”: a new phone, like the richest kids in the class had. His ex was dressed for a magazine shoot. Hosted like a queen. Smiled sweetly… but was dangerous. When it was time for presents, and his daughter picked up my book, she said loudly, smiling to the room: “See, darling… those who really love you give you what you dream of.” And pointed to the flashy gift. “And this…”—nodding dismissively at my book—“is just from ‘some lady.’ Just ticking a box.” The room froze. Everyone looked at me. Then at my husband. And he… said nothing. Didn’t defend me. Didn’t correct her. Didn’t do a thing. Looking at the floor. At his plate. Deep inside himself. Shrunk, stooped, almost hoping to disappear. His silence was louder than a slap. It was agreement. I survived the party with a stone face. Smiled, nodded… but inside, it was all over. Not a crisis. Not “the end.” Just the end. When we got home, I didn’t make a scene. Scenes are for people still fighting. I went to the bedroom, pulled out the old dusty suitcase—the one my husband brought when he moved in. And I began packing his things. Slowly. Methodically. No trembling. Shirts. Trousers. Socks. Neatly folded. He heard the noise, came in, and when he saw the suitcase… he froze. “What are you doing?” “Helping you pack,” I said calmly. “What? Where to? What’s all this? Because of today? She’s always like that…” “It’s not because of her,” I interrupted. “It’s because of you.” I put in the last shirt. “You live in the past. Every pound you earn, every thought, every silence—it’s all for back then. But I live in the present. The present where there’s no money for a washing machine because it went on tooth whitening for someone else’s whim. The present where I’m publicly insulted, and my husband stares at the floor.” I zipped up the suitcase. Stood it up. And looked him in the eyes. “Go. Go to her. Help her with everything. With teeth, tutors, her endless dramas and manipulations. Make up for your guilt, if you must. But do it there, not here. Set this place free.” “What place?” “The place for a husband in my life. It’s already taken. Taken by the ghost of another woman. And I’m tired of sharing my bed, my money, and my future with him.” I carried the suitcase to the front door and left it there. He took it… and left. I didn’t look back at the door. For the first time in ages, I felt the air was mine. My home was mine. My soul, at last, had space for itself. Two months later, our marriage was officially over.

09

📌 Useful Social Services & Contacts in the U.S.

Stay informed and get help when you need it. Below are key national services with direct contacts that may support you or your loved ones:
🏥 Health & Mental Support

SAMHSA – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

What they do: Free and confidential help with substance use and mental health disorders.

Hotline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) – 24/7, anonymous support

Website: samhsa.gov

🧒 Support for Children & Families

WIC – Women, Infants, and Children Program

What they do: Nutritional and healthcare support for pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.

Federal Info Line: 1-800-522-5006

Find local WIC office: fns.usda.gov/wic

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