Mum, Im home! Emily called out as she stepped into the flat, carefully placing her backpack down by the front door. She took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves coming home after school was always nerve-wracking. You could never predict what mood her mum would be in. Her heart was pounding so hard it felt like it would burst from her chest, and her palms were all clammy.
The silence was shattered by her mothers sharp, biting voice, like a whip crack from the lounge:
So? What is it this time? Another rubbish mark?
Emily flinched, eyes dropping straight down to her battered trainers. She was only twelve, but she was used to that tone it rang in her ears so often, forcing her to bottle everything up and hide those feelings somewhere deep inside. Her chest ached, her breath came in shaky bursts.
No, Mum I got a B in maths, she replied in a whisper, not daring to meet her mums eyes. Her voice quivered, giving away her fear. I was only a smidge off an A
Her mum, Margaret, got up with a huff from the sofa where shed been flicking through a glossy magazine, and stormed over. Her face twisted with anger eyebrows knotted together, lips pressed thin, eyes flashing coldly.
A B? You serious? Her mothers voice was shrill with outrage. My daughter shouldnt be getting Bs! Are you even aware how that looks? Like Im a rubbish mum! That I cant even raise you properly!
I tried Emily managed to get out, feeling her throat tighten. It was just a tricky question I couldnt quite work it out. I spent two hours on it last night
Tricky! her mum sneered, her smile venomous. No, youre just lazy! Didnt you just sit on that phone again instead of studying? Youre always faffing about with nonsense when you should be working!
She yanked Emilys backpack over and dumped its contents all over the hallway floor exercise books went flying like startled pigeons, her pencil case burst open, pens and pencils twirling everywhere. Emily stood frozen, fighting the tears back. She really had tried. Shed slogged away for ages last night, reread the whole textbook, even looked online for examples
Before Emily could even try to explain, her mum shoved her out the door: Dont you come back till youve figured out how to solve those questions! And no more Bs do you hear me?
The door slammed, and the echo seemed to make Emilys heart splinter. She just stood there, gripping the one exercise book shed managed to hang onto, tears dripping onto the cover, leaving dark stains.
Why does it always have to be like this? she thought, shuffling down the chilly stairwell, hugging herself for warmth her coat was still in the flat, and the damp London chill bit deep.
She really missed her dad. He was the only one who could calm Mum down or lighten the mood with a joke or a gentle word. But he worked long distances away, up north in a small Yorkshire town where he was building a new power station. He phoned every week, checked on how things were going, promised presents but right now, all Emily felt was that rock of loneliness on her shoulders.
The first time her mum had shouted at her, Emily had only been nine. Shed got an E in English, and her mum went ballistic, yanking her by the arm so hard it left a red mark. Youre embarrassing me! How can I show my face? People will think Im useless at raising you!
Shed run to her dad, David, that time and told him everything. Hed been furious, had a long talk with her mum, told her to stop, that grades werent everything. But the next day, when hed left for work again, her mum had called Emily into her bedroom.
If you tell your dad again shed hissed, squeezing Emilys shoulder painfully, itll be a lot worse for you. Understood? You need to know your place. Dont you dare bother him with your childish issues again.
From then on, Emily just kept quiet. She tried her hardest to be invisible, to be perfect, but her mum always found something to pick at. Every morning started with her homework diary being checked, every evening was an interrogation about what marks shed got. It got to a point where she was scared to even walk through the door, like she was stepping onto thin ice, just waiting for it to crack.
Once, when she was tidying up, she overheard her mum chatting on speakerphone with her friend Susan. Emily froze, holding her breath, listening:
I never even wanted a kid, Margaret was saying, her voice harsh in a way Emily had never heard before. David insisted. Said a family isnt a family without children. I wanted to keep him happy thought maybe if I had a son, hed be closer to him and I could just stay out of the way. But then Emily turned up and he dotes on her, forgets all about me!
Youre jealous of your daughter? asked Susan, genuinely puzzled.
Its not jealousy, I just She ruins everything. Because of her we argue! Wish shed never been born The words stabbed straight into Emilys heart.
She slipped away, tears stinging her eyes, burying her face into her pillow so no one could hear her sobs. After that, she tried even harder to keep out of the way, but it never helped. Her mum always found some reason to be angry, always looking for a way to vent.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Emily? What are you doing out here, love? came a gentle voice from behind.
Emily turned sharply. There was Mrs. Watson, their downstairs neighbour, a lovely elderly lady with soft grey curls perfectly set and kind, tired eyes. She was wearing her flowery housecoat and those slippers with bobbles, the kind that looked like they were designed just for comfort.
Mum kicked me out Emily sniffed, her voice trembling with the pain she felt.
Again? Because of a school mark? Mrs. Watson sighed, studying Emilys tear-streaked face, and something in her gaze made Emily want to cry again there was so much understanding and care there. Come on, youd better pop in with me. Its freezing and youll catch your death. That just wont do.
She took Emilys hand warm and soft and led her into her little flat, which smelled of vanilla and freshly brewed tea. Bright red geraniums in the windowsill added colour to the gloomy day.
Sit down, sweetheart, Ill whip up some sandwiches, said Mrs. Watson, popping the kettle on. Go on, tell me what happened. Im all ears.
Emily sat at the kitchen table, staring at Mrs Watsons daisy-embroidered tablecloth. Her hands were trembling, and she could hardly get the words out.
It was just a B she whispered, tears sliding down her cheeks again. But she says Im an embarrassment. That Im lazy and useless. That she looks like a bad mother because of me
Oh, bab, thats just not true, Mrs. Watson said firmly, slicing bread confidently. Youre bright and clever, its your mum whos not seeing things straight. She must be carrying her own worries. Sometimes that makes adults take things out on others. Do you want me to speak with her? Tell her its out of order?
No, please dont, Emily shook her head, wiping her eyes on her sleeve. Itll only make it worse. Dad would help, but hes so far away
Mrs. Watson stayed quiet for a moment, then gently stroked Emilys hair, a small gesture but one that brought enormous relief like an invisible blanket of warmth protecting her from all the nastiness.
You know, sometimes grown-ups need a nudge too, she said softly, piling sandwiches high with ham and cheese. Maybe your dad really ought to come back for a bit or at least call your mum for a proper chat. He adores you, anyone can see that.
Emily looked up, for the first time in ages realising that someone truly understood. Gratitude filled her chest, and deep down, a little flicker of hope returned. She took a bite of the sandwich it was delicious, sharp cheese with that sweet hint of ham and a sip of warm tea. The scent of mint and linden blossom wrapped around her like comfort.
Dad promised hed come for the holidays, she murmured, watching the steam rise from her cup. But its so far and Mum wont let him get involved. She says Im her daughter, and she knows best.
Mrs. Watson sighed, sitting down across from her with her chin in her hand.
Raising a child doesnt mean shouting and punishing, she said. Its about support and believing in them. Your mum just doesnt realise that yet. But it doesnt have to go on forever.
She thought for a moment, then added, You know what? Ill ring your dad. Tell him you need him. He wont let you down, Im sure.
Emily froze, the idea of someone finally stepping in, of her dad knowing the real story, was both terrifying and hopeful. She nodded, clutching her mug tighter, feeling the warm seep into her fingers.
*************************
Two weeks later, something completely unexpected happened.
Emily came back from school and stopped, stunned, in the hallway. There were her dads boots, caked in travel mud, right by the door! Had he come home early? Her heart thumped wildly. Shed missed him so much the way he smiled, his big hugs, the way he made jokes even when things were rough. She felt a strange mix of hope and fear.
From the lounge, loud voices rang out:
You cant just walk away! Were a family! her mum was shouting, her voice nearly hysterical.
Family? Davids voice was uncharacteristically firm, none of the usual gentleness there. What kind of family is this, Margaret? Ive spoken to the teachers, I spoke with Mrs. Watson I know everything. Every time you shout, every time you tear Emily down, the way you make her feel like shes nothing.
What do you know? Mum shrieked. Shes lying about me! That little liar!
I know how you treat her, he interrupted quietly. How you put her down, scare her, make her feel like shes not wanted. Have you any idea what youve done to her childhood? Shes afraid to walk into her own home, like its a prison. She cries at night because youve banned her from coming to me.
Oh, so youre just going to spoil her! She needs a little bit of hardship, to learn nothing comes easy! She cant get praise for every tiny thing!
But not at the cost of her wellbeing! David shot back, ice-cold. Im not letting you destroy her any more.
If you leave, Ill make sure you never see her again! her mum yelled, desperation flaring in her eyes.
Who said shes staying with you? he replied, voice steady and cold. Youre not a mother to her. I wont stand by and watch you crush her anymore.
He stepped into the hall and spotted Emily. His whole face softened, warmth and care flooding his eyes. He crouched down, took her hands in his big, steady, familiar.
Im never going to leave you, he whispered. I promise. Ive got it all sorted.
He hugged her, and for the first time in years, Emily felt safe. She wanted to tell him everything every accusation, every night shed cried herself to sleep, all the fear and loneliness, the way her mum said it would have been better if shed never been born. But it was enough just to be there in his arms, knowing she wasnt alone.
Dad, she mumbled, sniffing, pressing her face into his jacket, breathing in his familiar smell. Can we live together? Just us?
Of course we can, he smiled, his big cheerful grin scattering all her worries. Ive already found us a flat nearby, and a job. Youll stay at your school, and in the evenings well cook, watch telly, chat about everything. Sound good?
Emily nodded, smiling through tears. Hope, tender and strong, grew in her chest. She hugged her dad tightly, feeling years of hurt and fear finally start to ease.
Thank you, she whispered. Thank you for being here.
David stroked her hair and replied softly, Thank you for being you, Em. Ill do everything to make you happy.
The rain outside had stopped, and golden sunlight broke through, lighting up the whole street. Emily looked out of the window and, for the first time in ages, let herself believe that things could be alright.
At that moment, her mum stormed out of the lounge, face twisted in anger, eyes wild, her lips curled in a nasty sneer. She looked like all her fury and bitterness was pouring out, making her almost unrecognisable.
Youll regret this! she hissed, her voice trembling with rage. BOTH of you! Think its so easy to get rid of me? Ill show you! Ill ruin you!
David stood up, shielding Emily behind him. He wasnt backing down, not anymore. The look in his eyes said hed do whatever it took.
Margaret, he said with calm but steely determination, were done. Emily and I are moving out, and you wont get in the way. Thats not a request. Thats how it is.
Get in the way? Margaret cackled, and her laughter rang out, unnatural and scary. Ill finish you! Both of you will come crawling, begging for forgiveness!
Emily clung to her dads sleeve, the old familiar fear settling inside her. But David rested his hand gently but firmly on her shoulder, and even that tiny gesture gave her the courage to go on.
Come on, Em, lets go, he said quietly, but with certainty. Theres nothing left here for us.
He took her hand and led her to the door. Margaret lunged, but stopped at the threshold, like an invisible wall blocked her way. She stood panting, fists clenching and unclenching, her face twisted with helpless rage.
You havent heard the last of me! she shrieked after them, her voice rising to a screech. Ill make you both pay! Youll wish youd never left! Mark my words!
The door slammed, cutting them off from the past. Emily took a deep breath and felt her body finally start to relax.
**********************
The next few days felt like a fairytale like theyd stepped into another world, one free of shouting or fear. They moved into a small but cosy flat not far away: bright walls, big windows streaming in sunlight, and a view of a quiet courtyard with a huge old maple tree.
David found a job with a local building company his time as an engineer was really valued. Every morning began with his big smile and a proper English breakfast, which they made together: Emily chopped fruit, David cooked eggs and toast. The kitchen filled with the smell of fresh coffee and cinnamon. Evenings were for walks in the park, feeding ducks by the pond, board games, or films with the two of them tucked under a blanket. For the first time in a long time, Emily felt genuinely happy light, free, alive.
One morning at breakfast, Emily slid her school report across the table with a trembling hand.
Look Dad, I got an A in maths! she exclaimed, her voice bursting with pride and joy.
David glanced at it, then looked straight back at her, wide smile spreading across his face.
Thats amazing! Honestly! See, when youre not under pressure all the time, you do brilliantly. Im so proud of you. You are utterly fantastic.
Emily grinned and hugged him tightly. She didnt need to be scared anymore, or hide, or make excuses. Next to David, she felt protected, loved, wanted.
Dad? she asked shyly, Can we go to the zoo one day? I havent been for ages Id love to see the giraffes theyre so tall! And the monkeys theyre always so funny
Of course! David chuckled, ruffling her hair. This weekend well go. Take a picnic, feed the pigeons by the gate, see all the animals one by one. Well even get a picture with something cute. Deal?
Deal! Emily laughed, her giggle ringing out clear and happy, like a springtime stream.
***************************
Meanwhile, Margaret was prowling around the empty flat, at a complete loss. The silence pressed down on her, a constant reminder that she was alone now. The anger and bitterness ate away at her like acid. How could he just do this? How could he take Emily and walk out?
She slumped at the kitchen table, hands holding her head, plotting revenge. Nasty ideas swirled around: First, Ill get him fired I know some people at that building company. Send in an anonymous complaint Or I could plant something in Emilys school bag, get her in trouble for theft. Or start rumours at school, get the teachers on her back
She tore a page out of her notepad, scoring deep grooves with her pen as she scribbled out her plans. Every idea seemed more brilliant, more terrible than the last.
Maybe Ill destroy their new flat flood it or cause a fire. Or pay someone to scare them Or start telling everyone what a terrible dad David is, how badly he treated me
She was so caught up in her vendetta that she didnt notice her own mum, Emilys gran, coming in a small woman with greying hair, kind but weary eyes.
Margaret, what on earth are you doing? her mum asked, peering worriedly at the notebook. Her voice was gentle, but edged with concern.
Margaret jumped and slammed it shut as if shed been caught doing something shameful.
Nothing, Mum, just writing out my to-do list for the week, she fibbed unconvincingly.
To-do list? Her mum snatched up the notebook, running her eyes over the page. She went pale, her eyes filling with pain. Margaret, is this real? Are you honestly planning all this against your own husband and daughter? You must know this is madness.
They betrayed me! Margaret shouted, voice thick with hurt. He left me, took Emily, smashed our family to bits!
You destroyed your own family, her mum said quietly but firmly, meeting her gaze. Look at what youve become. Youre obsessed with revenge, but youre not thinking about your daughter at all. Youre clearly struggling, Margaret. You really need to see someone about this.
A therapist? Dont be ridiculous! Margaret tried to brush it off, but somewhere inside, something wobbled.
No, I mean it, her mum replied severely. If you wont go yourself, Ill book you in. You cannot go on like this youre ruining yourself and everyone else.
Margaret wanted to argue, but suddenly all her energy seemed to drain away. She slumped onto the nearest chair, her shoulders drooping, eyes filling with tears.
Mum I dont know whats wrong with me, she whispered, sounding lost and young. Ive been angry for so long jealous even. I thought Emily took David away from me, that she was at the heart of all our problems I never meant to be like this, but I couldnt stop
Her mum wrapped her up in a big hug, smoothing her hair.
See? You really do need support, love. Lets get you some help, for Emilys sake too. Theres still time to turn this around.
Margaret sniffled and nodded. For the first time in ages, she realised maybe all wasnt lost maybe she could start again, and someday learn to be different with her daughter.
**************************
That night, David and Emily snuggled up on the sofa watching cartoons. Emily leant against him, soaking in his warmth, listening to the steady beat of his heart. Soft lamps glowed in the corner, and outside, gentle rain tapped at the window like a lullaby.
Dad, she asked quietly, looking up at him, will Mum ever change? Do you think shell ever love me?
David was silent for a moment, gently running his hand through her hair. He looked so sad he knew how much harm her mum had done, and how much Emily still longed for her love. He chose his words carefully, not wanting to hurt her any more.
You know, Emily, he said softly, people can change. But for that to happen, they have to realise something needs to change. Your mums not in a good place right now. Shes hurt, shes confused, maybe even unhappy. That doesnt make her a bad person, but she needs time and help to work things out.
Emily sighed, pressing closer, her head on his shoulder.
But what if she never does? she whispered. What if she always hates me?
Even if that happens, he squeezed her hand, remember, who you are isnt defined by how she treats you. Youre an incredible girl bright, kind, thoughtful. Just because she cant see that right now doesnt change whats true. The most important thing is, you have me and I have you. And Ill love you no matter what.
Emily looked up, eyes shiny with tears, but this time it was warmth and gratitude.
Thanks, Dad. Sometimes it feels like Im all alone. But you always know what to say.
Thats because I love you loads, David grinned. And youre never going to be alone. Were a team. And if your mum ever wants to fix things, well let her try but only if shes ready to respect you and your feelings.
Emily nodded, turning back to the cartoons where the characters danced about in wild abandon. For the first time in ages, she let herself imagine that things could be different someday. That maybe, just maybe, her mum might change, and they could speak kindly to each other maybe even hug.
Dad? she piped up again, can I invite Molly round tomorrow? I havent seen her for ages she keeps asking when she can come over
Absolutely! David replied at once. Lets have a party bake some cookies, put the telly on, play some games. Sound good?
That sounds brilliant! Emily beamed. Ive missed my friends Mum never used to let me have anyone over. Said it would distract me from school work.
Well, things are different now, David winked. Youll have plenty of friends, fun things to do, and happy days ahead. School can take care of itself you just get to grow up happy.
Emily smiled, feeling something bright and warm blossom inside her, like the first flower pushing up through the dark spring soil. She knew now things were going to be alright.
