My Family
Oh my goodness, Daisy, you look absolutely stunning! Patricia gasped with delight as she entered her daughter’s bedroom.
Daisy stood in front of the mirror, waiting patiently while her friend and part-time stylist, Emily, finished attaching the veil. After the final hairpin slipped in place, Daisy turned to face her mum.
Really, Mum? Do I look alright?
You look beautiful, darling! The most radiant bride theres ever been! Patricia said, beaming as a warm smile spread over her face. It occurred to her, her own mother had once told her the same. Must be something all mothers say when their daughters stand before them in a wedding dress.
Choosing the dress had taken ages. Daisy had always been incredibly particular when it came to clothes. She paid no mind to the latest trends or what anyone else thought what truly mattered was that she loved it herself. With her excellent taste and a figure that allowed for almost anything, no one could ever fault what Daisy wore.
So, when it came to her wedding dress, she didnt care for the current fashion nothing strapless or extravagant. She wanted something different, something not like everyone else. The assistants in the boutique nearly threw their hands in the air; how could they possibly please such a bride? In the end, the shop manager, Caroline, saved the day.
I think I have just the thing for you.
She disappeared and reappeared moments later with another garment bag. Once Caroline unzipped it, Daisy gasped. That was it!
Clean lines, no embellishments, just exquisite fabric. Daisy spun before the mirror. Absolutely perfect! It fit like it had been made just for her not a single alteration needed.
What do you think?
Ill take it!
Caroline smiled, a hint of sadness in her eyes that vanished as quickly as it came. No need for this young woman to know the dress had originally been meant for Caroline herself. Only, her own wedding wasnt meant to be. You shouldnt marry without love or trust, and if you lack one, the other cant survive. Ah, Alex why did you have to be that way? She had loved him, wanted a family and children, but he had been fickle, torn between two women, never choosing. Well, now the choice was made Caroline shrugged away her thoughts. No sense dwelling on whats lost life must go on.
Theres a wonderful veil for this gown too. Ill fetch it now.
Daisy winked at her mum:
Told you Id find what I wanted, didnt I?
Patricia nodded, her heart overwhelmed with happiness. She knew shed treasure these days as the happiest of her life. It made her think back to her own wedding. Things werent so simple back then: you couldnt just buy any dress you fancied. It was either whatever the little local bridal shop stocked, or you made it yourself. Patricias own dress had been made by her mums friend who worked as a seamstress; an aunt found the fabric and someone else provided the buttons no mean feat. The dress was lovely. Happiness, though, never quite followed. Her marriage ended before Daisy was two. A new love came along, new passions, and suddenly Patricia and the child she bore were no longer wanted. Daisy grew up with no father; he sent his support payments and that was that. He wouldnt want anyone questioning his decency. Its just how life changes sometimes. But as for actually spending time with Daisy, Gregory refused flat out.
I dont need unnecessary complications.
Patricia didnt argue. Better no father at all than one who doesnt love you.
She tried, for a time, to reshape her life, hoping Daisy might find someone to fill the father figure role. But Daisy never meshed with her stepdad. He wasnt fond of children he loved Patricia in his own way, but raising her daughter was never part of his plan. When, one day, he suggested that Daisy go live with her dads family, Patricia quietly packed his bags and showed him the door.
Well be fine, my dear. We dont need anyone else.
At the time, Daisy understood little more than that her mum had chosen her. For whatever reason, she remembered that clearly. Maybe thats why their teenage years passed without any real problems. For Daisy, Patricia was the most precious person in her world.
Daisy, its time now, or youll be late! Patricia gently adjusted her daughters veil and kissed her on the forehead. Be happy, my darling girl.
Daisy threw up her hands and laughed.
Mum! Dont Ill cry, and Emily will have my head for it. She took an hour to do my makeup in that barely there way. Now it might all run!
Hugging Patricia close, Daisy whispered:
Ill do my best
The wedding day went by in a flash. Patricia came home to her quiet, empty flat, closed the door, and sat on the bench in the hall. That was it. Daisy would now live with her husband in her grandmothers old flat, which Patricia had given to the young couple. Dennis, Daisys husband, had nowhere of his own, and when Daisy mentioned the idea of living with his parents, Patricia said nothing at first but, after Dennis left that evening, quietly gave her daughter the keys.
No need for that, love. Start your lives together, just you two.
But, Mum, what about the tenants?
Its all arranged. Theyll be gone before the wedding.
But the money Thats your income! We were all set to rent for a bit.
What do I need so much for? Im still working, Ill manage fine. You two just live youve a home, no need to rent somewhere else.
Daisy danced around, jingling the keys.
Mum, thank you! My dream of a home is already a little closer.
A home, is it?
Yes! A big, bright house, enough rooms for everyone. Three childrens rooms, no less! Daisy blushed, resting her head on her mums shoulder. Too much?
Sweetheart, you can have as many as you like so long as you and the children are happy and healthy.
I love that you understand me
And its good your children will have a grandma still in her prime, Patricia laughed, kissing her daughters head. A home it is, then. Live the way you want live!
Patricia didnt mention what had happened the day before with Denniss parents. Theyd decided on a proper, English sort of engagement dinner at Patricias house. She spent the whole day in the kitchen. She loved to cook, but with just Daisy, big meals werent often needed, so she relished showing off her best recipes.
At first, Denniss parents seemed nice enough when they arrived, but that impression quickly faded. His mother, Elizabeth, poked at her plate and pursed her lips.
Odd Not at all like home…
Patricia raised an eyebrow, surprised. Her grandmothers special fish pie had always been a crowd-pleaser. So too the roast beef she’d been preparing since dawn. Denniss father, Charles, ate quietly, helping himself to seconds. He seemed to like her cooking just fine.
And Daisy, does she cook at all? Elizabeth pushed her plate away. I suppose Ill have to teach her. Well, no matter, theres plenty of time. We have a big house, plenty of room for everyone. Actually, probably for the best that theyll stay with us for a while. Daisy can settle in, learn how things are done. Dennis is spoiled, you see, hes my only boy. But Daisy is your only daughter, isnt she?
Thats right.
And you raised her alone? Without her father?
Thats how it happened.
Of course, its crucial for a girl to see what a complete family looks like. How can she know how to behave in a home if there was never a man about? Daisy is lovely, of course, but I do worry girls from single-parent families do struggle to settle into married life.
Patricia tried to keep quiet, though it was hard. Under the table, Daisy tapped her foot on Patricias again and again. Ignore it, Mum you promised. Daisy had warned her earlier that Dennis was nothing like his parents.
Hes wonderful, really, Mum. Youll see. Whatever you hear, do promise you wont be upset? Its not easy for him either, but we just have to keep calm.
Watching the way Daisy handled them, it all became clear. Patricia wanted to bang her hand on the table, tell them to leave. But Daisy, always so sensible, would never have picked Dennis without careful thought.
When clearing up, Patricia lingered in the kitchen, startled when Elizabeth followed her in.
Now, perhaps we could talk without the young ones around?
Charles stood quietly, almost apologetic. He clearly didnt like what was happening, but wasnt about to tell his wife no. Patricia braced herself, nodding wordlessly.
Patricia I suppose we can get rid of the formalities now Im a mother, you see, just as you are. I worry immensely about my only child. I must be sure everything is as it should be. This is the biggest decision of his life, and Id hate for him to have to go through it again…
She paused, waiting for Patricias reply, but Patricia simply listened she had learned, as a manager in the NHS, that if you let people talk long enough, they usually reveal much more than intended.
Please dont misunderstand; we really like Daisy. Its just there are things I must know, and only you can tell me.
Im listening.
I realise you dont have contact with Daisys father, but you must know about his side? Any serious illnesses? Why did you divorce? Was he a drunk? Unstable in some way?
Nothing like that.
But are you sure? Its important for us to know for their childrens sake. You, as a nurse yourself, must understand how vital these things are. I can overlook the single-parent upbringing I know you had to work long hours and couldnt always be there. But do try to see my side. Daisy will be joining my family, and I need to know what to expect.
Patricia realised her patience was nearly gone, the anger shed bottled up all evening close to boiling over. She took a deep breath, ready to push back against this intrusive woman. But before she could reply, she saw Daisy at the doorway, eyes wide with worry, shaking her head in silent plea. She hadnt caught the conversation, but the look on Patricias face was enough.
Mum?
Yes, Daisy. Ill be done here in a moment. Could you fetch Grans tea set for me, please?
Suddenly calm, Patricia turned to Elizabeth.
Daisys background is excellent, in every sense. If you need reassurance, I can provide anything you wish. No need to worry. I wont be asking for your familys medical history in kind let the young ones sort themselves out. Elizabeth she held up a hand as Elizabeth tried to interject I understand your worries, but I hope they wont become the reason Dennis ever feels he has to make that big choice you mentioned.
With that, she picked up her homemade Victoria sponge, handed it to Elizabeth and said, Lets not keep the children waiting. Would you help me take this?
She poured the tea, catching an approving and grateful look from Charles, and, for the rest of the evening, made it clear the matter was closed.
They didnt see each other again before the wedding. Daisy and Dennis had both been in work for some time and paid for everything themselves, no help needed from either family.
Two years after their wedding, Daisy and Dennis began building their dream house. They sold the grandmothers old flat and bought a plot just on the edge of town. Pregnant, Daisy threw herself into the project, gathering information, managing builders, and getting her way more often than not. Of course, they didnt finish in time for the baby, so Dennis brought Daisy and their newborn home to Patricias for a while, much to Elizabeths annoyance.
I hope you dont mind, but wed rather come here, Dennis said gently, settling the little bundle, baby Sophie, onto Patricias bed, which shed made up for them. Daisy feels safer and so do I.
Of course you did the right thing, Dennis, Patricia said kindly, seeing how nervous he was. Go on, open the blanket shell be hot tucked up like that.
Im nervous Dennis hesitated.
Dont be. Shes yours youll do fine. Its instinct, Dennis. Give it a go.
Patricia grabbed Daisys hand as she entered the room and whispered, Dont get in the way!
Dennis managed the first bath, first pram walk and nappy changes with no trouble. When Elizabeth arrived the next day, she shook her head.
Not really a fathers job, is it?
Rubbish, Patricia replied firmly, sending Dennis an encouraging smile as he took the baby off for a cuddle.
She didnt mention how she longed to take little Sophie in her own arms, to do it all her way what grandmother doesnt? But she remembered, not so long ago, she hadnt known anything herself.
Sophie thrived. The housewarming came, and a year and a half later Daisy started talking about another child, but then disaster struck.
Mum, Sophies got a temperature. Daisys voice on the phone trembled with panic Patricia had never heard before.
High?
Yes, and I cant bring it down.
Call an ambulance. Im coming!
Patricia drove through the sleeping town, praying nothing serious was wrong. Just let her be okay
Her prayers went unanswered, or perhaps they were postponed.
Ambulance, intensive care, and two days of waiting, the doctors words echoing, Were doing all we can…
Daisy sat like a statue outside ICU, forbidden entry, and Patricia didnt try to move her, just brought tea, soup, or whatever might keep her going.
You need your strength. Once Sophies on the ward, shell need you at your best.
Dennis ran between work and hospital, sometimes looking so near breaking that Patricia had to wrap him in a quick, tight hug.
Keep it together! If you fall apart, Daisy will, too.
Elizabeth arrived the moment she heard Sophie was in hospital.
How did this happen? Whats wrong with the child? Is it something inherited or an infection?
Elizabeth, please, not now, for the first time Patricia lost her patience. What does it matter?
But Elizabeth looked at Daisy, slumped against a wall, lips silently moving in prayer, and at Dennis, standing silently and gripping her hand, before just trailing off. I see Sorry.
Patricia nodded; you cant always make people say the right things at the right time. It just doesnt work like that.
Sophie pulled through and, ever the fighter, demanded her mum the minute she woke. She was transferred to a ward and Patricia finally exhaled. The rest they could manage.
A few days later, Patricia went to the hospital, played with Sophie, made sure Daisy had something to eat, and was just getting ready to leave when Daisy stopped her.
Mum, wait. Dennis will be back in a sec. We wanted to talk to you.
Hearing their plan, Patricia closed her eyes for a moment happiness…
Mum, so youll help?
Of course, you dont even need to ask!
Thank you! Daisy breathed out. Two kids now, and Sophies going to need even more attention I cant do it all without you.
Youd manage, but of course Ill help. Dennis is a treasure, too.
Dennis poked his messy-haired head out from under a blanket, Sophie giggling in his arms,
So, you dont mind?
Coming to live with you? I do mind! But it cant be helped. Patricia didnt ask why Dennis hadnt gone to his mother instead. Just for a little while. Until Sophies better. Call me your seasonal helper.
Mum!
What? Best comparison I could think of. You need help now, but it would be wrong for me to move in forever. Thats not right.
Id love it if you stayed all the time
Patricia hugged her granddaughter and stood.
Im always here, Daisy, and I always will be. But Im set in my ways, a proper old bat. And you have your own family. Thats how it should be. Helping is one thing. Living together is another. Topic closed. Right, Sophie?
Yes Granny!
When she got home, she started packing her things, only to be interrupted by the telephone.
Pat? Its odd, isnt it? Why you? Elizabeth, as usual, was direct. Surely Id be more helpful. Im at home all day, I know children better than you.
Elizabeth, it wasnt my decision. Perhaps you should speak to them? Ill help when asked.
Dennis didnt even listen to me! I dont know what you’ve got that I dont, but it’s bizarre. His own mother, ignored! How can that be?
I dont know, Elizabeth. Perhaps ask Dennis?
Youre impossible to talk to! Elizabeth snapped. I think you should refuse. Say youre too busy.
Are you listening to yourself, Elizabeth? Never mind why let me ask you, when did you last see Sophie?
Why bother? Youre always there. I cant even bring her food youve done it all already.
Well, theres your answer. Sorry, must dash. Goodbye.
Patricia put the phone down and thought for a while. Its so easy to break a fragile peace in a family, so hard to rebuild. Elizabeth didnt get it, but Patricia did all too well. She picked up her mobile and called Dennis.
Dennis, we need to talk.
Three Years Later
Granny, are you taking me to dance today, or is Granny Liz?
Me, darling. Granny Liz is out with Paul in the park. Mummy needs to work.
So Im having lunch at yours, then?
Yes.
Hooray! Will there be those buns you made last time?
Did you like them? Then yes, there will. Patricia glanced in the rearview mirror at Sophie in her car seat.
Granny…
Yes, love?
Are we going to the zoo with you at the weekend or with Granny Liz?
All of us, together. And well take Grandpa, too. He needs some fresh air.
Will you buy me balloons?
And an ice cream. And candy floss.
Brilliant! Sophie grinned. But Paul will want balloons too, okay?
Of course! Patricia laughed.
Granny…
Yes?
Can I tell you a secret? The best secret ever?
Go on, then.
Im going to have another brother or sister soon.
Patricias eyebrows shot up. Well, theres news! Daisy had indeed been smiling more mysteriously lately, but hadnt said anything. Since Patricia declined to move in with Daisy and Dennis, opting for the on hand when needed approach and sharing the load with Elizabeth, Daisy respected her even more, but told Dennis the big news first these days and not Patricia.
It hadnt always been plain sailing; there were rows and tears, but somehow, theyd all adjusted. For the children and for the future. Now, both Sophie and little Paul had two grandmothers and a wonderful granddad.
How do you know? Patricia lowered the radio.
Mum and Dad were talking last night. They thought I was asleep. Granny can I wish for a sister?
Why do you ask?
If its a brother, he might be sad I didnt wish for him…
Patricia smiled again. Such a thoughtful little girl.
Sophie, you love Paul, dont you?
Loads!
So youll love a new brother if its a boy, or a sister, and theyll love you too. Deal?
Deal!
Then well wait until the doctor tells Mummy what to expect, alright? And you know what else?
What?
I always wished for a brother myself, maybe two.
Really?
Honest! Cross my heart.
Okay, then. Sophie wriggled in her seat, rearranging her toys the bunny from Granny Pat, the bear from Granny Liz. Ill wait for a brother too, then.
And you know what else? Patricia turned into Daisy and Denniss road. Its like a present at Christmas. Until you open the box, you never know.
Have you bought my Christmas present yet? Sophie peeked cheekily at her grandmother as she unfastened her seatbelt.
For Christmas? Not yet, its a bit early. But I have got your birthday gift. Want to know a secret?
Yes!
Granny Liz has bought you something too. But I wont tell you what it is!
Oh, Granny! Sophie pouted.
Whats this, then? Your birthday is soon enough. Youll see then.
Alright! she sighed, grabbed Bunny by the ear and marched towards the gate.
Patricia pulled Sophies swimming bag out of the boot as Elizabeth approached with Paul on her hip.
Hello, Granny Pat!
Hello yourself! Elizabeth smiled. Were off to the park.
Were going dancing just need to get changed first.
Patricia watched Sophie chatter excitedly, half her words tumbling over the other, and thought how simple and complicated things are at the same time. To love those near you, to really listen and see them, to know youre needed, and to need them too To be a family.
