Arriving Uninvited
“Just look at the situation! We shouldn’t turn up uninvited. We need to call ahead before visiting. Staying for more than a week is also frowned upon since they’re apparently tired and want some peace. Their kids have schoolwork, but it’s our holiday,” Emily shared her thoughts with her mother.
“I can’t believe it, really,” her mother nodded.
“I spoke to that… Lucy yesterday,” Emily continued, “She told me it’d be ‘inconvenient’ to have us visit in May. The kids have school, and both she and Tom have work.”
“What did you say?”
“Of course, I suggested they could take some time off.”
“And what was her response?”
“She mentioned their vacation is in July and that it’s too late to change plans since they’re going somewhere. They don’t want to cancel their plans, yet we’re supposed to adjust ours.”
None of the family members tried to explain to Emily and her mom that other people also deserve rest. Not that it would make any difference.
“I’ve told you, just pack and go. Once you’re there, they’ll have to accept it. They can’t turn you away.”
“I know, but some notice or anticipation would’ve been nice…”
Most of their conversation revolved around Lucy rather than Tom. Tom seemed to understand, yet he often conceded.
“Ever since he started living with Lucy, he’s changed. We need to discuss things now,” Emily continued venting.
“It’s all because of her.”
“Exactly. You can influence Tom, but not Lucy.”
Emily planned to head to the northern city over the May bank holiday and have a good time. They intended to stay at Tom’s cousin’s place. Whether he wanted them or not wasn’t their concern; they wanted to go. They had called and talked, but Lucy, his wife, managed to explain that it just wouldn’t work. That was when Emily got upset.
“Don’t worry. Just get ready.”
“I’ll call again.”
The new conversation didn’t lead to any changes.
Lucy politely but firmly said they had commitments over the May holiday. Either extra classes for the kids or a family trip. They didn’t really have the budget for guests either.
“They say they’re going away,” Emily told her mum.
“Don’t buy it. She just says that on purpose.”
In their eyes, Lucy was not popular in the family. Ever since she joined, Tom had developed his own viewpoints. Before, they could persuade him easily. Now discussions were required.
“Do you think so?”
“Of course. Don’t you worry. Start packing tomorrow. On Saturday, catch the train. They’ll have no choice but to take you in when you arrive on their doorstep.”
Emily had her doubts. She took after her mum, and even she hesitated about visiting people who clearly said they couldn’t host.
“They don’t want to. But they’ll find a way once you’re there,” her mother seemed to read her mind. “I see you’re hesitating. Do you want a break? Fine, take one. Plus, it’s not just about you. Alice and Josh want a holiday too, as does your husband. So don’t fret. Once you arrive, they’ll have no choice but to let you stay.”
“Alright then.”
Everything was planned. Her mother managed to convince Emily. The girl didn’t deny that this arrangement suited her. They needed the break, and the others would just have to put up with it.
***
Standing before the grand door of Lucy and Tom’s flat with all their luggage, Emily dialed their number. Why hadn’t anyone opened it yet?
“Hello, where are you?” Emily asked immediately, pressing the doorbell multiple times.
“Hello! What do you mean? We’re off for some fishing.”
“Fishing? But there’s no river nearby.”
“What do you mean? There’s both a river and a lake. The hotel’s fantastic. Exactly what we wanted. Plus, there’s an entertainment program in the evening.”
“You’re not home?”
“Lucy did mention this to you. I was there. Yes, I remember clearly.”
Of course, Emily remembered. But she hadn’t thought it was true.
“We’ve come to visit you. We’re standing at the door. What should we do since you invited us and then left?”
“Sorry, but we didn’t really invite you.”
“What does it matter? We are here now.”
“Book a room at a hotel. I apologize, but we were clear that we couldn’t host.”
Emily ended the call, feeling convinced it was Lucy and Tom who were in the wrong.
