HOMELESS
I found myself with nowhere to goliterally nowhere. A couple of nights at the train station, perhaps. But what then? Suddenly, a glimmer of hope flashed in my mind: The allotment! How on earth did I forget about it? Well, allotment is perhaps rather generousa rundown shack, really. Still, better to head there than sleep at the station, I reasoned.
Once I was on the suburban train out of London, I leaned against the chilly window and closed my eyes. Unpleasant memories of the past few years washed over me. Two years ago, I lost both my parents and was left utterly alone. I had no way to pay for university fees, so I dropped out and started working at a local market.
After all that hardship, luck seemed to be on my side. Not long after, I met James, who turned out to be a decent, kind man. Two months later, we had a modest wedding.
It should have been happily ever after but life had other plans. James suggested we sell my parents’ flat in central London and use the money to start our own business.
He painted such a promising picture that I had no doubts whatsoever. I was certain he knew best and that soon we would leave behind our financial worries. Once were stable, we can think about having a childId love to be a mother soon! I dreamed naively.
But the business failed. Arguments about wasted money became routine, and our relationship fell apart rapidly. It wasnt long before James brought another woman home and showed me the door.
My first instinct was to go to the police, but I realised I had no case. It was me who sold the flat and handed the money to him
***
As I got off at the village station, I trudged alone along the deserted platform. It was early spring; the gardening season hadnt begun, and the plot had become overgrown and neglected in three years. Its alrightIll tidy it up and itll be just like before, I thought, though I knew deep down things would never be the same.
It wasnt hard to find the key under the porch, but the warped wood made the door impossible to open. I pushed and rattled for ages, but it wouldnt budge. Frustrated, I sat down on the step and burst into tears.
Out of nowhere, I caught sight of smoke and heard voices from the neighbouring allotment. Cheered, I dashed over.
Aunt May! Are you home? I called out.
There in the garden, however, was a scruffy old man, not Aunt May. He was warming water over a small fire in a battered mug.
Who are you? Wheres Aunt May? I asked, nervously taking a step back.
Dont be afraid, and please, dont call the police. Im not trespassingjust living here in the garden, he replied calmly. Surprisingly, his voice was gentle, educated, and reassuringthe voice of someone refined.
Are you homeless? I blurted.
Yes, youre right, he answered softly, avoiding my gaze. Are you the neighbour? Dont worry, I wont disturb you.
Whats your name?
Michael.
And your surname? I pressed.
Surname? he smiled wryly. Bennett.
I studied Michael Bennett closely. Despite his worn-out clothes, they were reasonably clean and he was presentable.
I honestly dont know who to turn to I sighed heavily.
Whats happened? he inquired kindly.
The doors stuck. I cant open it.
If you allow me, I could take a look, he offered.
Id be grateful, I murmured, desperate.
While Michael fiddled with the door, I sat on the bench and reflected: Who am I to judge or despise him? Im no better offIm homeless too.
Emily, its done! Michael Bennett smiled, nudging the door open. Waityoure planning to stay here tonight?
Yes, where else? I answered, surprised.
Is there any heating?
Theres a stove, I think I admitted, feeling clueless.
And wood?
No idea, I replied glumly.
Alright, head inside, Ill sort something out, he said decisively and left.
I spent the next hour cleaning. The place was chilly, damp, and miserable. It seemed impossible to live there. Soon, Michael returned with a pile of firewood. To my surprise, I felt genuinely comforted by having another soul nearby.
He cleared the stove pipe and soon the room grew warm.
All set! Keep adding small bits of wood, but put the fire out at night. Dont worrythe warmth will last until morning, he explained.
Where will you goto the neighbours? I asked.
Yes. The city doesnt tempt me; I dont want to stir up old memories.
Michael Bennett, please, stay for supper and some hot tea with me before you leave, I said firmly.
He didnt protest. Silently, he took off his jacket and settled by the stove.
Im sorry to pry but you arent like a typical vagrant. Why are you living outdoors? Wheres your home, your family?
Michael explained that hed been a university lecturer his whole life. He devoted himself to teaching and research. Age crept up unexpectedly and, by the time he realised he was utterly alone, it was too late to change things.
A year ago, his niece started visiting. She gently offered help if hed leave the flat to her in his will. Michael was delighted and agreed.
Then, Tanya gained his trust, suggesting he sell the stifling flat and buy a cosy cottage in the countryside with a large garden and a pleasant gazebo. She claimed shed already found a bargain deal.
Hed always dreamed of fresh air and peace, so he agreed without hesitation. After selling the flat, Tanya proposed opening a bank account since it wasnt wise to keep so much cash on hand.
Uncle Mike, have a seat on the bench. I’ll go in and see to things. Let me take the envelopewho knows, someone may be watching us, she said at the bank entrance.
Tanya disappeared inside with the money, and Michael waited, one hour, then three She never came back. When he finally entered, he found the place empty and another exit at the far side.
He couldnt believe his own niece had deceived him so cruelly. He sat there waiting. The next day, he went to her old address, but a stranger answered and informed him Tanya had sold the flat two years ago.
A rather sad story Michael sighed. Ive been living outside ever since. Its hard to accept I have no home left.
I thought I was alone! Im in a similar situation I confessed, and told him everything.
Its all terribly unfortunate. Ive at least lived my life but you? Dropped out of university, lost your home But dont despair, every problem has a solution. Youre young, things will come right, he tried to reassure me.
Lets not dwell on gloom. Dinner’s ready! I smiled.
As I watched him devour pasta and sausages, pity welled up within me. It was clear he was lonely and vulnerable.
How terrifying, to be left completely alone, to know nobody needs you, I thought.
Emily, I can help you get reinstated at your university. I still have friends there, and Im sure you could study on a scholarship, Michael said unexpectedly. Of course, looking like this, I cant visit my old colleagues. But Ill write the rector, Constantine, an old mate. Hell help for sure.
Oh, thank you! That would be wonderful! I beamed.
Thank you for dinner and for listening. Id best be offits getting late, Michael said, rising.
Wait, please! Its not right, you sleeping outdoors Ive got three spacious rooms. Take whichever youd like. Honestly, Im afraid to be alone, afraid of the stoveI know nothing about it. You wont leave me in dire straits, will you?
No, I wont leave you, he replied solemnly.
***
Two years passed I successfully finished my exams and, anticipating summer holidays, travelled home. I still spent weekends and holidays at the allotment, though term-time was in halls.
Hello! I called happily, hugging Grandpa Mike.
Emily! My dear girl! Why didnt you ring? I wouldve met you at the station. How did you dodid you pass? he beamed.
Yes! Almost all top marks! I grinned. I bought cakeput the kettle on, lets celebrate!
With tea and cake, Michael Bennett and I chatted about our news.
I planted grapes. Over there, Ill build a gazeboitll be lovely and comfortable, Michael said.
Thats brilliant! Honestly, youre the boss here; do whatever you please. I just come and go I laughed.
Michael had changed completelyhe was no longer lonely. He had a home, a granddaughter in me, Emily. And I was alive again. Michael became family. I am so grateful fate brought him to me, a grandfather to replace lost parents and support me when I needed it most.
