My Family
Goodness gracious, Daisy, you look absolutely stunning! Margaret exclaimed with delight as she walked into her daughters room.
Daisy stood by the mirror, waiting while her friend and occasional stylist, Emily, finished pinning the veil in place. The last few hairpins went in, and Daisy turned to face her mother.
Do I really, Mum? Do I look alright?
Perfect, darling! You are the most beautiful bride, Margaret assured her, a warm smile spreading across her face. She remembered, with a pang of nostalgia, how her own mother once said those very words to her. Perhaps every mother says the same to her daughter, gazing at her in her wedding dress.
It had taken ages to find the right dress. Daisy was awfully particular about clothes. She never cared for fashion or anyone elses opinionwhat mattered was that she liked it. Luckily, she possessed excellent taste and her figure suited any style, so no one had ever told her she was dressed in poor taste. So for her wedding, she didn’t choose the latest fashion trenda revealing, pouffy number. She longed for something different, something unique. The shop assistants were at their wits endhow could they possibly please this bride? In the end, the owner of the boutique, Catherine, came to her aid.
I think I have just the thing for you.
Catherine left the showroom and returned a moment later with another dress hidden in a garment bag. As she unzipped it, Daisy gave a little gasp. This was the one!
Simple lines, no embellishments. Beautiful fabric. Daisy turned to look at herself in the mirror. Without a doubt, it was the right choice. The dress fitted her as though it had been fashioned just for her. No alterations were needed.
What do you think?
Ill take it! said Daisy.
Catherine smiled, a flicker of sadness in her eyes quickly replaced by a businesslike cheerfulness. There was no reason for Daisy to know that Catherine had ordered the very same dress for herself. But her own wedding was not to be. Theres no point walking down the aisle without love and trustone cant exist without the other. Oh, Alanwhy did you string me along? She had longed for a family, for children, and Alan had simply played her along, unable to choose between two women. Well, some choices make themselves in the end Catherine shook off her melancholy thoughts. Best to look forward; whats passed is done.
Theres a gorgeous veil that would go perfectly with this dress. Let me fetch it now.
Daisy winked at her mother. Didnt I tell you Id find exactly what I wanted?
Margaret nodded, brimming with happiness. These would be the days to remember as the happiest in her life. She recalled her own pre-wedding preparations. Back when she got married, you couldnt just buy a dress like that. It was either one of the limited options in the bridal salon or youd have to sew it yourself. Her mothers friend worked in a dressmakers, and she had sewn Margarets dress. A relative sourced the fabric, another found the trimmings, which was an ordeal in itself. The result was a lovely dress. Only it didnt bring happinessthat lasted barely two years after Daisy was born. New loves, new passions and Margaret was abandoned, as was the baby shed had. Daisy grew up without a father. He kept up the child support payments, of coursehe was too conscious of propriety not to. That way, everything seemed as it should bejust new chapters, a different family. Such things happen. But Daisys father, Graham, always refused to see her.
I dont want any extra problems, he said.
Margaret didnt argue. Better no father at all than one who doesnt care.
Shed tried to rebuild her personal life so Daisy might have a proper father figure. But things with Daisys stepfather hadnt worked out. The man Margaret lived with for just over a year had no interest in children. He was taken with Margaret herself, even professed to love her in his way, but wanted nothing to do with raising her daughter. And when, during a row, he ever-so-casually suggested sending Daisy to live with her father, Margaret wordlessly packed his belongings and showed him the door.
Well be just fine, darling. We dont need anyone, she told Daisy.
At the time, Daisy understood little, except that her mother had chosen her. Somehow, she remembered this especially well. Perhaps thats why, through her teenage years and afterwards, Margaret never had any trouble with Daisy. Her mother was the most important person in Daisys world.
Daisy, time to go. Youll be late! Margaret fussed with her daughters veil and kissed her gently on the forehead. Be happy, my girl!
Daisy threw her hands up and laughed. Mum! If you start me off, Ill cry and Emily will throttle me. Shes spent ages doing my make-up so precisely that you cant even tell Im wearing any! Ill ruin it all.
Hugging Margaret, Daisy whispered, Ill do my best
The wedding day passed in a flash. Margaret returned to the now quiet flat, shut the door, and sat on the bench in the hallway. That was itshe was alone. Daisy would be living with her husband, Henry, in Margarets mothers flat, which Margaret had given them as a start. Henry, now Daisys husband, didnt have a place of his own, and when Daisy mentioned casually that theyd probably live with his parents, Margaret said nothing at the time. Instead, later that evening after Henry had left, she handed Daisy the keys to the flat.
Theres no need for that, darling. Live in your own place, just the two of you.
But Mum, what about the lodgers?
Ive dealt with them ages ago. Theyll be out in time for your wedding.
But thats your income and wed planned to rent somewhere until wed saved enough.
How much do I really need, love? Ill make do. Im still working and Im fit. You two just live. Why rent when you can have your own place?
Daisy danced about with the keys. Mum, this brings my dream of a home of my own that bit closer.
A house?
Yes! A big, light house with space for everyoneand at least three childrens bedrooms! Daisy flushed and hugged her mum. Is that too much?
No, Daisy, Margaret replied softly. However many you want, just make sure you and your children are healthy.
Im glad you understand
And Im glad your children will have a young grandmother. Margaret laughed, kissing Daisys hair. A house it islive the life you want!
Margaret never told Daisy about the conversation shed had with Henrys family the day before.
The engagement dinner was done properly, at the brides home. Margaret had spent the whole day in the kitchen. She loved cooking and was quite good at it, but she and Daisy didnt need much fancy food on their own, so showing off her culinary skills to guests was a rare occasion.
At first, Henrys parents seemed nice enough. That impression faded, though, when Henrys mum, Elizabeth, pushed her plate away with a slight frown.
How odd nothing is quite how wed do it
Margaret raised her eyebrows. Her grandmothers baked fish never failed to please, nor did the meat, which shed carefully prepared for nearly a whole day. Henrys father, Stephen, quietly ate, serving himself more, clearly enjoying the food.
Does Daisy know how to cook? Elizabeth asked, pushing aside her plate. I suppose well have to train her up. Never mind, well manage. Our house is large; theres room for everyone. Its probably for the best theyll live with us. Daisy will learn whats what, see how to look after Henry. Hes rather spoiltmy only son, you know. I suppose your Daisy is your only child?
Thats right.
And you raised her alone? Without her father?
Thats just how things turned out.
Of course, a complete family is important for a young woman to learn her way in life. Without a man in the house, how is a girl to know how things should be? Obviously, were very fond of Daisy, but its bound to be a challenge adjusting to family life after being raised by just her mother.
Margaret sat quietly, biting her tongue as Daisy nudged her under the table. Daisy had warned her alreadyHenry was nothing like his parents.
Hes a good man, Mum. Youll see. Please, just dont get upset by what you hear, alright? Its tough for him, too, but theres nothing to be done
Margaret remembered Daisys words now. She wanted to stand up, bang her fist on the table, and tell these people to leave her home. But Daisy was a clever girl, and Margaret trusted that her daughter had weighed every for and against before choosing Henry.
While clearing up, Margaret lingered in the kitchen, almost jumping when she heard Elizabeths voice behind her.
Shall we talk now, just us?
Elizabeths husband, Stephen, was behind her, watching Margaret with a look that was almost apologetic. He obviously didnt like the way things were going, but he kept silent. Margaret nodded and prepared herself.
Margaret No need for formalities anymore Im a mother, just like you. I worry about my only child. I need to be sure everything will work out. Right now, hes making the most important decision of his life. At least, I hope he wont have to do this again and again
Elizabeth trailed off. Margaret had learned long ago that if you simply let people talk, theyll reveal far more than they ever intended. It served her well as manager at the GP surgerypatients knew shed listen and help if she could.
Dont misunderstand me, we like Daisy very much, Elizabeth continued, But I do have some concerns. Only you can answer them.
Im listening, said Margaret, tamping down her urge to end the conversation. Her heart achedshe too had every right to worry about her child.
I know you and Daisys father divorced a long time ago, and youve no contact, but you must know something about his side of the family?
Of course.
Any serious health problems? Why did you separate? Did he drink? Was he difficult?
Nothing like that.
Could you be more specific? Its importantHenry might have children with Daisy, after all, and family history matters, as youll know as a nurse! I realise you raised Daisy alone, and were working, so it must have been hard finding the time for her upbringing. I dont hold it against you. But I have to think of my son. Daisy is joining our familyI need to know what to expect.
Margaret felt her patience snap. All evening shed been holding herself back, but this was enough. She took a breath to deliver a cutting reply, but just then Daisy appeared at the door, shaking her head urgently and catching Margarets eyedont say anything! Even though Daisy hadnt heard the discussion, she could see a storm brewing.
Mum?
Yes, Daisy. Nearly done in here, just putting the kettle on. Will you get out Grans tea set?
Suddenly calm, Margaret turned to Elizabeth, Daisys family health is excellent. If youd like proof, Ill get you all the details. Theres nothing to worry about. I wont ask about your family treeperhaps the young couple should decide for themselves. Elizabeth, Margaret silenced her with a gesture, I understand your fears, but I hope they wont force Henry into making that difficult decision over and over.
Margaret picked up the cake platterhomemade Victoria spongeand nodded toward the door. Lets not keep them waiting. Will you give me a hand?
With the platter in Elizabeths hands, Margaret checked the teapot and caught a brief, grateful smile from Stephen. She left the kitchen and, for the rest of the evening, made it clear that the conversation was closed.
They didnt see each other again until the wedding. Daisy and Henry had both been working for ages, paying all their own bills, and hadnt needed their parents financial help preparing for the ceremony.
Daisy and Henry started building their dream home two years later, having sold Grannys flat to pay for a plot. Pregnant Daisy, after years of research, took on the role of project manager with gustoso much so that the builders, laughing, still did exactly as the lady of the house instructed. The house wasnt finished before the baby arrived, so when Daisy was discharged from hospitalmuch to Elizabeths dismayHenry brought her back to Margaret.
Sorry for descending on you, Henry said earnestly as he laid the newborn on Margarets bed, which shed given the young family. But itll be less stressful for Daisyand for me.
You were right, Henry, Margaret smiled at his uncertainty. Nothing to panic about. Go ahead. Unwrap her. Shes too warm all bundled up.
Im nervous Henry hovered over the baby.
No need. Shes your daughteryou wont do any harm. Its instinct. Try it.
Margaret quietly took Daisys hand and whispered, Let him be!
Henry handled the first bath and walk like a champ. When Elizabeth came to meet her new granddaughter the next day, she shook her head. This isnt a mans work, looking after a baby.
Thats an outdated idea, Margaret said firmly, smiling at her son-in-law gently cradling the child.
She didnt say how much she wanted to take over, to scoop up little Sophie from her inexperienced parents. All grandmothers want to, quite forgetting that they were once just as unsure and scared.
Sophie grew into a healthy, strong child. The housewarming followed, and after a year and a half, Daisy began to think about a second baby. Then, disaster struck.
Mum, Sophies got a fever. Margaret gripped her phone, heart pounding. Shed never heard Daisy sound so scared.
How high?
Really highand Calpols not helping.
Ring 999 now. Im on my way!
Margaret sped through the citys late-night traffic, praying fervently. Please let it not be serious
Her prayers werent answered, or perhaps they were simply left to one side for later.
Paramedics, resuscitation, and then two days of waiting outside intensive care, after the doctor said, Wait. Were doing all we can.
Daisy was like a statue in the corridornobody allowed in. Margaret just brought her tea or coffee, urging her to eat something.
Youll need your strength when Sophies moved to the ward. Shell need you fit.
Henry darted from work to hospital and back. Margaret hugged him, seeing he was near breaking point.
Hang in thereif you lose it, Daisy will fall apart.
Elizabeth arrived just after Sophie was admitted.
How did this happen? Is it hereditary? Or is it catching?
Elizabeth, enough! Margaret snapped for the first time. What does it matter?
But
Elizabeth looked at Daisy, leaning, eyes shut, lips moving silently; at Henry, silently holding her hand; and at Margaret, giving her an unusually sharp look. Suddenly, Elizabeth stopped. Sorry
Margaret nodded. Sometimes, people simply dont know what to say.
Two days later, Sophie startled everyone by sitting bolt upright and demanding her mum. She was moved to a side room, and Margaret breathed easiertheyd manage the rest.
A few days later, Margaret visited the hospital, entertained Sophie, and made sure Daisy ate before heading home. Daisy stopped her at the door.
Mum, wait. Henrys on his waywe wanted to talk to you.
When Margaret learned why, she closed her eyes for a moment in happiness.
Mum, will you help us?
Of course! You didnt even need to ask!
Thank you! Daisy sighed in relief. With two, and with Sophie needing more attention nowI couldnt cope without you.
Of course you couldbut look at your husband!
Henry stuck his tousled head out from under the blanket where Sophie was playing hide-and-seek and asked, Sois it alright with you?
Moving in? I object! But I suppose I havent a choice, have I? Margaret didnt ask why Henry hadnt gone to his own mother. And only for a whilejust until Sophies better. Think of me as temporary staff!
Mum!
What? I couldnt think what else to call myself. I know you need help, but Im not moving in forever. Thats not right.
I wish you would
Margaret embraced her granddaughter and got to her feet. Im always here, Daisy, always. But Im a confirmed old singleton! Youve your own family nowand thats as it should be. Theres helping, and then theres living together. Thats ittemporary nanny. Right, Sophie? She kissed the little girl goodbye.
Back home, as she packed her things, the phone rang.
Margaret? Isnt this all rather odd? Why you? Elizabeth was her usual blunt self. Im sure Id be more use than you. Youve got a jobIm retired and I know more about kids.
Thats not my choice, Elizabeth. Maybe you should ask Henry? I help when asked.
Henry wouldnt even listen to me! I dont know why he prefers youits strange. What about his own mother?
I couldnt say. Youll have to ask him yourself.
Youre impossible! Elizabeth was now exasperated. I think you should refuse themsay youre too busy.
Elizabeth, do you hear yourself? I wont ask why, but when did you last see Sophie?
Why bother? Youre always there. I cant even bring her foodyouve done it already.
Well, theres your answer. Sorry, must dash. Bye.
Margaret paused, thoughtful. It was so easy to upset the balance in a familyrebuilding it could be almost impossible. Maybe Elizabeth would never understand, but Margaret was fully aware of the risks. She picked up her phone and rang Henry.
We need to have a chat.
Three years later.
Grandma, are you taking me to dance class today, or is it Granny Beth?
Its me today. Granny Beths out with Patrick. Mummys working.
So Im having lunch at yours?
Yes.
Brilliant! Will there be your special buns like last time?
You liked them? Then yes. Margaret glanced in the rearview mirror at Sophie, buckled happily in her car seat.
Grandma
Yes, love?
Are we going to the zoo with you at the weekend, or Granny Beth?
All of us together. And Granddad toohe needs a good walk.
And will you buy me balloons?
And ice cream and candy floss.
Yay! Sophie grinned, But Patrick must have a balloon too, alright?
Of course!
Grandma
Yes?
Can I tell you a secret? Top secret?
Of course.
Im going to have another brother or sister soon.
Margaret raised her eyebrows in surprise. That was news! Daisy had been acting unusually cheerful lately, but said nothing. Since Margaret had insisted on remaining in her own home, helping from a distance, and sharing duties with both grandmothers, Daisy respected her wishes even more and now gave Henry the first news, not her mother.
It hadnt been easy at firstand there had been rowsbut theyd managed, together. Some had to adapt, others learned when to hold their peace. Sophies health and the next baby were the stakes. In the end, Sophie and Patrick ended up with two grannies and a loving granddad.
How do you know? Margaret turned the music down.
I heard Mummy and Daddy talking last night. They thought I was asleep. Grandma, is it okay if I want a sister?
Why do you ask?
Well, if its a boy, he might be hurt that I wanted a girl instead.
Margaret smiled to herself. What a good girl was growing up in their family!
Sophie, do you love Patrick?
Lots!
Then if its another boy, youll love him too, and hell love you. Yes?
Yes!
Lets wait until the doctor tells Mummy what youre going to have, alright? And do you know what?
What?
I always wished Id had a brotheror better, two.
Really?
Absolutely.
Alright then. Sophie wriggled in her seat, rearranging her toys. Grandma Margaret had given her the rabbit, Granny Beth the bear. Ill wait for a brother, too.
And do you know what else? Margaret turned onto Daisy and Henrys street. Its like a Christmas presentyou wont know what youve got until you open it.
Have you bought me a present already? Sophie eyed her grandmother slyly as Margaret unbuckled her from the seat.
For Christmas? Not yet, its much too soon. But I have for your birthday. Want to know a secret?
Yes!
So has Granny Beth. But Im not telling what it is!
Ohh! Sophie pouted.
Dont pout! Your birthdays very soonyoull find out then.
Alright! Sophie grabbed her rabbit and marched towards the garden gate.
Margaret fished out Sophies swimming bag and nodded at Elizabeth, coming up the path holding Patrick.
Hello, Grandma!
Hello to you! Wonderful to see you, Elizabeth beamed, Were off for a walk.
And were off to dance, just popping in to change first.
Margaret watched as Sophie pressed close to Elizabeth, talking quickly and eagerly, and thought about how complicated and how simple life could be. To love those who are near, to listen and understand, to see and know youre neededand that you need them too. Thats what it is to be a family.
