Edward, I truly dont understand you. Have you lost your senses? What does it mean, Im leaving?
I mean exactly that. Ive had a lover for quite some time! Shes sixteen years younger than me! And Ive decided, Im better off with her!
Shes young enough to be your daughter!
Nonsense! Shes already twenty.
Edward stepped closer to her.
And besides. Emilys father is terribly wealthy. At last, Ill have the life Ive always dreamed about! Do you understand? And shell give me a childunlike you!
Each word struck Anne like a slap. Shed always suspected this day would come, for they never had children.
Still, she never imagined it would happen with such humiliation.
She and Edward had been together nearly fifteen years. Theyd weathered storms as every couple does. Yet Anne had always believed a marriage needed respect above all else.
Anne, you could at least shed a tear, put on a show of decency. Makes me feel awkward, you just standing like that.
She lifted her chin with dignity.
And why should I cry? Im happy for you! Truly! At least one out of us managed to realise a dream.
Her husband grimaced.
Why do you always bring up your silly brushes and paints? Its not really work, not honestly.
Granted, its just a hobby. But if Id worked a little less, and if youd earned a bit more, maybe I could have devoted myself to what I love.
Oh, spare me! What else do you have to do? Its not as if you can have children. Just keep busy.
Anne glanced over as Edward hurriedly tried to close his battered suitcase.
Edward, yournew flame, she isnt going to work, either. How do you intend to manage? Youre not exactly keen on graft.
Thats none of your business now, is it? But Im feeling generous today, so Ill share. We only need to fend for ourselves for a short while.
Once Emily is expecting, her father will shower us with money! Really, well get bydont fret!
Edward finally snapped the case shut and left the house, slamming the door. Anne winced. Shed always hated loud noises. She turned again to the window.
A shiny red motorcar pulled up nearly to the front steps. Out leapt a young woman, laughing as she threw her arms round Edwards neck.
Of course, all the old ladies in the lane gawked at the spectacle. The man could have slipped away quietly, but nohe just had to make it a scandal.
And yet, of all things, Anne felt a wave of relief. Lately, life with Edward had seemed a farce.
He barely came home at all. Shed understood, though she couldnt unravel the knot they called a family.
Anne picked up the telephone.
Ruth, love, what are you up to tonight?
Her friend sounded startled.
I say! Are you finally emerging from that gloom of yours?
Oh, honestly, there was never any depression. Just a bout of melancholy. Shall we go out this evening? Lets have a drink, a good natterafter all, theres cause for it.
The receiver went quiet for a moment. Then Ruth cautiously asked:
Anne, are you quite alright? Which pills have you taken today? For your headache, or for a fever? Wait, do you even have a temperature?
Stop fussing, Ruth.
If youre serious, Im all for it. Im sick to death of that glum face of yours! Only
Go on, what?
Its not that. Will Edward let you go? Wholl fetch him his supper for the sofa, wipe his nose?
Ruth! Seven oclock, The Sapphire Room!
Anne slammed the receiver down, grinning. Shed always threatened to wring her friends neckone day, and soon.
But it never spoiled their friendship. Anne grabbed her handbag and dashed out. It was already midday, and she had much to do.
Ruth anxiously glanced at her watch. Anne was never latenow she was already five minutes over.
Then her friend appeared at the restaurant door, and Ruths mouth fell open. Truth be told, everyones eyes widened.
Anne had always kept her hair long and pinned in a bun. Now, it was chic, cut short, a soft ash blonde.
She rarely wore more than a dab of mascara and some cream after her bath. Now there was a flawless, radiant makeup.
Rather than her usual trousers, Anne wore a loose dress, more flattering than the tightest jeans.
Anne, just look at you
Anne triumphantly placed her bag on the chair and sat.
Do you like it?
Ill say! You look ten years younger. Dont tell me you threw Edward out!
I wont say a word. He left himself.
The friends looked at one another, then broke into laughter.
Half an hour later, a man at a neighbouring table sent over drinks. He looked a few years oldera handsome, kindly man.
Ruth shot Anne a sly look.
There you go, admirers already.
Anne smiled, waving him over. Ruth gawked.
I like this new you!
They stayed until late. The gentleman introduced himself as George; he was witty, clever, easy to talk to, and charming.
After sending Ruth home in a cab, George offered to see Anne home.
Id walk across town for you! I do have a car, but I wont risk it tonight.
No needwere only two streets away.
They reached Annes house at dawn, still talking, still wandering.
Anne, I never did ask what you were celebrating. Maybe your birthday? Should I have brought a present?
No Well, perhaps, depending how you look at it. My husband left me yesterday.
Anne smiled her brightest, and George gave her an amazed look.
Well, Anneyou’re full of surprises.
Three weeks later, Anne and Ruth sat in a café.
So, Anne, how are things with George?
Anne smiled.
Ruth, I dont think Ive ever been so happy. Theres nothing I hide from him. He takes my worries in his stride.
But somethings niggling at you?
Its Edwardhe wont leave it alone. I dont know why, but hes sent me an invitation to his wedding.
Goodness why on earth?
He probably wants to see his ex-wife in fits of tears. Or to show her off to his new bride.
What a cad! Anne, bring George along. Turn up, congratulate them, and then leave. Just put on a brave face!
Edward gazed at Emily.
You look beautiful
I know. Do you think my father will come?
How could he not? You’re his daughter
Some father. Not a penny all year, always trying to make me earn a living.
Edward hugged her.
Dont fret, love, hell appearhis daughters getting married!
Theyd paid for the wedding on credit. Both Edward and Emily were certain her father would soften and open the purse-strings.
Edward?
Well, do you think your ex will turn up?
Would you believe, yes! She rang me yesterday.
No!
Shell probably beg me to come back.
No doubt. I do love a little drama.
When Anne explained her plan to George, he was surprised.
What times the wedding?
Two oclock. Are you busy?
And your exwhats his name?
Edward, why?
AhAnne, of all things! Of course Ill come.
He explained things to her only as they neared the church. Anne was too shocked to protest.
They walked arm-in-arm down the path to the wedding table. Anne smiled bravely. George at her side.
Edward and Emily looked discontent, even on their own day. As they approached, Emily whispered,
Papa?
Edward could only mumble,
Anne?
He hadnt recognised her at first. He never believed his ex-wife could look so radiant.
George presented Emily with flowers, a card, and said,
It’s a wonderful thing, becoming independent. Now, Anne and I are off to see the world together.
He turned to Edward,
I do hope youll take good care of your mother-in-lawshe deserves a rest. Well leave you to it.
They stepped outside. Anne wanted to laugh, unsure how George would take itbut he turned to her, smile creasing his eyes.
You know youll have to marry me now, dont you?
Anne considered, then answered gravely,
Well, if its the done thing, so be it
Arm in arm, they headed to the car. George was on the telephone, already booking tickets someplace warm, where thered be sun and sea.
