Couldn’t Hold Out Any Longer “I’m filing for divorce,” Vera said calmly, handing her husband a mug of tea. “Actually, I’ve already filed.” She said it as casually as if she were announcing, “Chicken with veg for dinner tonight.” “If I may ask, since when—well, never mind, not in front of the kids,” Arthur said, softening his tone when he saw his sons’ anxious faces. “What did I do wrong? And let’s not forget, kids need a father.” “Do you think I can’t find them another one?” Vera rolled her eyes dramatically and smirked. “What did you do wrong? Pretty much everything! I thought life with you would be like a calm lake, not a raging river!” “Alright, boys, finished eating?” He didn’t want to continue this conversation with the kids around. “Off you go, play. And no eavesdropping!” Arthur called after his sons, well aware of their restless curiosity. “Right, now let’s carry on.” Vera pursed her lips with displeasure. Even now he manages to be bossy! Playing ‘Father of the Year’… “I’m tired of living like this. I don’t want to spend eight hours a day at work, grinning at colleagues and tolerating clients… I want to sleep in, shop at expensive boutiques, get pampered in beauty salons. And you can’t give me that. I’ve given you the best ten years of my life—enough!” “Can we drop the theatrics?” Arthur cut her off dryly. “Wasn’t it you, ten years ago, who moved heaven and earth to marry me? I wasn’t exactly dying to settle down.” “My mistake, it happens.” The divorce was quick and quiet. Arthur reluctantly agreed to leave the boys with their mother, providing he had them every weekend and for holidays. Vera accepted without complaint. Six months later, Arthur introduced his sons to his new wife. Cheery, vivacious Lucy won their hearts at once, and the boys started looking forward to weekends with their dad—a fact that thoroughly infuriated their mother. What irritated Vera even more: Arthur had inherited a substantial sum from some distant uncle, bought a large country house, and was living the good life. He still kept his job, paid modest child support, but took pleasure in clothing his boys himself and showering them with gadgets. And he managed those child support payments with an eagle eye! If only she’d waited just six more months! Had Vera known how things would turn out… Well, she’d have played things differently! Or perhaps it wasn’t too late? * “How about a nice cup of tea? Like old times,” Vera flirted, twirling a strand of her hair. Her short dress showed off her figure, her expertly applied makeup easily took off a few years. She’d made an effort and looked stunning. “I haven’t got time,” Arthur replied with a cold glance. “Are the boys ready?” “They can’t find something—give them ten minutes, I know them. Maybe we could celebrate New Year together? The boys spent all afternoon decorating the tree.” “We already agreed in court: holidays are mine. We’re heading to a lovely little village for skiing and snowboarding. Lucy’s organised it all.” “But it’s a family holiday…” “Exactly. We’ll spend it—family style. Make a fuss and I’ll take the boys permanently.” As the door closed behind her ex-husband and their joyful children, Vera smashed the expensive wedding china in fury. Lucy. Always Lucy! Acting as though she’s delighted to see the boys, counting the days until they’re gone—Vera knew what monsters their kids could be! But maybe this could work… Vera smiled slyly. She hadn’t lost yet. Soon Arthur’s money would be under her control again… * “What’s all this?” Arthur asked, eyebrows raised at the suitcases on the doorstep. “What do you mean? Kieran’s and Jamie’s things,” Vera nudged the bulging case. “You’ve got your life sorted, so it’s my turn. Let’s face it, there aren’t many men who’ll step up for another bloke’s kids, so from now on, the boys will live with you. I’ve been to the authorities, they’re in the loop—it’s just paperwork now. I’m off on holiday with an exciting new man.” She left a stunned Arthur in the driveway as she sauntered to her waiting taxi. How long would saintly Lucy last—a week? Maybe two? And Arthur would choose the boys over his new wife—get him back, and his money with him. A fortnight passed. Then a month. Then two. No call came asking her to collect the children. And judging by the boys’ chatter, Lucy hadn’t even raised her voice! Could it be? The two little devils had become angels? Impossible! “How are the boys? Not worn out by them yet?” Vera couldn’t resist phoning her ex. “They’re brilliant, no trouble, they listen, always helping,” Arthur’s voice warmed at the mention of the boys. “Real golden lads.” “Really?” Vera was astonished. “They always made trouble for me…” “That’s because you have to spend time with children,” Arthur scoffed. “Instead, you lived on your phone. By the way, just so you know—we’re moving. I’ll bring the boys down for the holidays if you want.” “But… They’re my children too!” “You signed over all rights—you remember? Some mother you are,” Arthur laughed, and hung up. Vera was left gnashing her teeth. She hadn’t won her husband (or rather, his money) back, her new fling was a bust, and even her children would soon be far off. Not that she’d really miss them—she quite liked having her time to herself. Is this fair? Ten years of patience, only to trip just months before the good life… So Unfair…

Author Walton MerrittReading 6 minViews 1

Couldnt Hold On

Im filing for divorce, Mary said calmly as she handed her husband a cup of tea. Actually, Ive already filed.

She spoke with the casualness you might use to mention roast chicken for supper.

If I may askwell, never mind, not in front of the boys, Edward replied, lowering his voice so their sons wouldnt hear. What have I done to upset you? And lets not forget, the boys need their father.

Do you really think I couldnt find them another father? Mary rolled her eyes and let out a short, bitter laugh. What have you done wrong, you ask? Everything, Edward! I hoped life with you would be tranquil, like a still lake, not an endless stormy river!

Right, lads, have you finished eating? Edward moved swiftly to end the conversation before their children could listen in. Off you go, run along and play! And no eavesdropping! he called after them, already knowing his sons curious natures. Now, lets continue.

Mary pursed her lips in annoyance. Even now, he tries to take charge, as if hes father of the year.

Ive had enough of living like this. I dont want to work eight hours a day, smiling at coworkers and grovelling to clients. I want to sleep in, wander through posh shops, and spend my afternoons at beauty parlours. Youve never been able to give me that, so enough! Ive given you the best ten years of my life

Spare me the dramatics, Edward interrupted, his tone clipped. Wasnt it you, ten years ago, who did all you could to snare me? I wasnt exactly desperate to get married.

Mistakes happen. To the best of us, Mary replied, dismissively.

The divorce went through quickly and quietly. Reluctantly, Edward agreed to let the boys stay with their mother, on the condition they would spend every weekend and all holidays with him. Mary agreed without hesitation.

Six months later, Edward introduced the lads to his new wife. Cheerful, warm-hearted Alice won the boys over instantly, and they began to look forward to weekends at their fathers, much to their mothers irritation.

What angered Mary even more was that Edwards fortunes had suddenly changed; he inherited a considerable sum from some distant uncle, bought a grand country house, and was living quite comfortably. Still, Edward maintained his job and paid only modest child support, choosing instead to personally clothe the boys and shower them with the latest gadgets. He even monitored every penny of support closely himself!

Why hadnt she waited just six more months? If only Mary had known how things would turn outshe would have done everything differently.

But perhaps, she began to think, not all was lost.

***

Fancy a cuppa? Like old times? Mary smiled invitingly, twirling a lock of her long hair. Her short dress accentuated her figure and flawless makeup shaved years from her appearance. She had taken great pains to look irresistible.

I havent the time, Edward shot her a glance devoid of warmth. Are the boys ready to go?

Theyre still getting their things togetherknowing them, itll be ten minutes yet, Mary answered with forced disappointment, but she pressed on, Perhaps we could ring in the New Year together? Charlie and Henry spent all afternoon decorating the tree.

We agreed in court: the holidays are mine. Well be spending it in a lovely little village with heaps of snow, perfect for sledging and skiing. Alice has everything planned.

But its a family holiday

And thats how well be celebrating. As a family. Argue, and Ill take you to court for custody.

Once her ex-husband and the excited children departed, Mary smashed a bone china teacupthe wedding presentin a furious rage. Alice That insufferable Alice! Always pretending to be overjoyed to see the boys, while probably counting the minutes until they leave. Who, if not Mary herself, knew how restless and demanding her sons could be?

But perhaps Mary smiled slyly. There was still a way to make Edwards money her own after all.

***

And whats all this? Edward raised an eyebrow at the suitcases lined up at his front door.

Isnt it obvious? Charlies and Henrys things, Mary nudged a heavy suitcase, causing it to wobble. Now that youve sorted your life out, I think its time I did the same. But you must know, not every man wants someone elses children, so the boys will be living with you now. Ive already spoken to Social Services. Everything just needs formalising. Thats for you to arrangeIm off for a holiday with a rather promising suitor.

She left Edward staring after her, utterly baffled, as she strolled to the waiting taxi. How long would that saintly Alice last? A week? Two? Surely no more. And when Edward was forced to choose between his sons and his new wife, hed choose the boysand come crawling back to her, money in tow

A fortnight passed. A month. Two. Yet there was no word demanding her to collect the boys. Judging by their lively stories, Alice hadnt even raised her voice once! How was it possible? Were her two little imps suddenly angels? Impossible!

One day, Mary could hold back no longer and picked up the phone.

So, how are the boys behaving? Worn you down yet? she asked.

Theyre brilliant, Edward repliedand Mary could hear the warmth in his voice as he spoke of their sons. Theyre helpful and well-behaved. Absolute gems.

Really? Mary replied, her surprise obvious. They always gave me trouble

Thats because children need attention, Edward said with a dismissive snort. You were glued to your phone all day. Anyway, just so you know, were moving house. If youd like, Ill bring the boys for the holidays.

But theyre my children too!

You willingly signed over your parental rights, Edward laughed openly. Some mother, you are.

Mary could only seethe with regret. She hadnt got her ex-husband backnor his new-found wealthher new romance fizzled out, and now her sons would be farther away than ever. Not that she minded all that much; after all, she quite enjoyed having all her time to herself.

What an injustice! To endure ten years, only to lose out just months before a comfortable, well-off life

So unfair…

The Last Summer at Home When William arrived on Wednesday, the sun had already climbed high, baking the roof until the tiles cracked. The garden gate had fallen off its hinges three years before; he stepped over it and stopped at the porch—three steps, the bottom one completely rotten. Testing the second for strength, he carried on inside. Inside, the air was stale and musty. Dust settled thick on the sills; an old cobweb stretched from the beam to the worn sideboard. William managed the window open with effort and was immediately hit by the scent of hot nettles and dry grass from the garden. He walked through all four rooms, making a silent checklist: wash the floors, check the fireplace, fix the summer kitchen plumbing, throw out everything rotten. Then call Andrew, Mum, the nephews. Tell them: come in August, let’s spend a month here, just like we used to. Used to—twenty-five years ago, when Dad was alive and every summer saw the whole family gathered here. William remembered making strawberry jam in a copper pan, lugging buckets of water from the well with his brothers, Mum reading aloud on the veranda in the evenings. Then Dad died, Mum moved to the city to live with the youngest, and the house was boarded up. William visited once a year, checking no one had broken in, then left again. But that spring, something clicked inside him: maybe it was time to try and bring everyone back, just once. He worked alone the first week: cleared the chimney, stripped and painted two porch boards, scrubbed the windows. He drove to the local market town for paint and cement, arranged for an electrician to look at the wiring. The parish council chairman, bumping into him by the shop, shook his head. “Why bother, Will? You’ll end up selling anyway.” “I won’t sell before autumn,” William replied, heading off. Andrew came first, Saturday evening, with his wife and two kids. Climbing out, he winced at the garden. “You really think we can last a month here?” “Three weeks,” William said. “The kids need the fresh air. So do you.” “There’s not even a shower.” “There’s a sauna. I’ll fire it up tonight.” The kids—an eleven-year-old boy and an eight-year-old girl—shuffled off to the swings William had hung from the old oak. Andrew’s wife, Sarah, silently took a bag of groceries inside, William helping unload the car. His brother still seemed tense, but said nothing more. Mum arrived Monday, driven by the neighbour. She paused in the old living room, sighing, “Everything feels so small. I remember it being bigger.” “You haven’t been here for thirty years, Mum.” “Thirty-two.” She stroked the cold worktop. “It was always freezing in here. Dad wanted to fit central heating, but never got around to it.” William heard the weariness in her voice, not nostalgia. He brewed her tea, sat with her on the veranda. She gazed out over the garden, talking of hard winters and gossiping neighbours, of backaches from carrying water. William listened, realising to her this wasn’t a nest but an old wound. That evening, when Mum went early to bed, William and Andrew sat by a fire in the garden. The kids slept. Sarah read by candlelight—electricity only worked in half the house. “Why are you doing this?” Andrew asked, staring into the flames. “I wanted us all together.” “We see each other at Christmas.” “It’s not the same.” Andrew smirked. “Bit of a sentimental dream, Will. Three weeks here won’t change everything.” “I just wanted to try.” After a pause, Andrew softened. “I’m glad you did all this. But don’t expect miracles.” William hadn’t expected them. But he hoped. Much of the week passed in a blur of chores. William fixed the fence, Andrew helped re-roof the shed. The boy, Arthur, started exploring with an old fishing rod he’d found. The girl, Sophie, helped Grandma weed the veg patch William dug hastily along the sunny wall. One afternoon, while painting the veranda together, Sarah laughed, “We’re like commune volunteers or something.” “At least they had a plan,” grumbled Andrew, but even he smiled. William saw the tension ease. Evenings saw the family around the broad table on the veranda, Mum making soup, Sarah baking village cheese pies. They discussed mosquito nets and lawnmowers, asking if the pump was fixed yet. Then, one night after the children were asleep, Mum said, “Your father wanted to sell this house. A year before he died.” William froze, mug raised. Andrew frowned. “Why?” “He was tired. Called it an anchor. He wanted a flat in town near the hospital. I fought him. Said this was our home, for the family. We argued. In the end, he never sold—and then he was gone.” William set down his mug. “Do you blame yourself?” “I’m not sure. I just… I’m tired of this place. It only reminds me how I insisted—and he never got his peace.” Andrew leaned back. “You’ve never said that before.” “You never asked.” William saw his mother—years heavy on her shoulders—and realised for her, the house wasn’t treasure but a burden. “Maybe we should have sold it,” he whispered. “Maybe,” Mum agreed. “But you boys grew up here. That has to mean something.” “What does it mean?” She met his eyes. “It means you remember who you were, before life pushed us all apart.” He didn’t believe it at first. But the next day as he, Andrew, and Arthur walked by the river and the boy caught his first perch, he saw his brother’s laughter—easy, genuine. That evening, as Mum showed Sophie where she once taught their father to read, there was something softer than pain in her voice. Maybe forgiveness. They set departure for Sunday. The night before, William fired up the sauna, the family enjoyed it together, then sipped tea on the veranda. Arthur asked if they’d return next year. Andrew glanced at William but said nothing. The next morning, William helped load the cars. Mum hugged him: “Thank you for inviting us.” “I hoped for more.” “It was good, in its own way.” Andrew clapped his shoulder. “Sell it if you like. No objections.” “We’ll see.” William watched the cars disappear, dust settling on the lane. He returned through the silent house, packed the last bits, took out the old iron padlock from the shed and hung it on the gate. Heavy, rusted, but strong. Standing by the garden wall, he gazed back: roof straight, porch sturdy, windows clean. The house looked alive. But William knew it was all an illusion—a house lives only while there are people. For three weeks, it truly had. Maybe that’s enough. He got into the car and drove away. In the mirror, the roof flashed, then the trees hid it. William drove slowly down the rutted lane, thinking he’d call the estate agent in the autumn. For now, he’d remember the meals, the laughter, Arthur’s caught fish. The house had done its job—it had brought them together. And maybe that was enough to let it go, without sorrow.

The Default Break-Up: When Meeting the Parents Means Choosing Sides — “Everything will be fine,” whispered Will quietly, trying to sound confident. He took a deep breath, exhaled, and pressed the doorbell. The evening promised to be a challenge—how could it be any other way? Meeting the parents was always a milestone… The door opened almost immediately. Mrs. Alice Preston stood on the threshold. She looked immaculate—her hair neatly styled, a sharply tailored dress, a hint of make-up. Her eyes lingered on Laura, paused at the basket of homemade cookies, and her lips pursed ever so slightly. The gesture was fleeting, almost invisible, but Laura caught it. “Come in,” said Mrs. Preston, her voice lacking warmth as she stepped aside to let them pass. Will entered, avoiding his mother’s gaze; Laura followed, stepping cautiously over the threshold. The flat greeted them with soft lighting and the scent of sandalwood. It was cozy, but almost too perfect. Not a stray item, not a book left askew, not a misplaced scarf. Everything was in its place, every detail screaming order and control. Mrs. Preston led them into the lounge—a spacious room with a large window and thick cream curtains. In the centre stood a massive sofa upholstered in expensive fabric, next to a low dark-wood coffee table. She gestured towards the sofa, inviting them to sit. “Tea? Coffee?” she inquired, still not meeting Laura’s eyes. Her voice was even, emotionless—a formality more than hospitality. “I’d love some tea, thank you,” Laura replied politely, her voice steady and friendly. She placed the cookie basket on the table, neatly untied the ribbon, and lifted the lid. The scent of fresh biscuits quickly filled the room. “I brought some cookies. Baked them myself. Please, help yourself…” Mrs. Preston gave the basket a moment’s glance, then nodded. “Very nice,” she said, making for the kitchen. “I’ll just get the tea.” Once she left, Will leant toward Laura and whispered, “I’m sorry. Mum’s always… reserved.” “Don’t worry,” Laura smiled, squeezing his hand. “I get it. As long as you’re with me, that’s what matters.” While Mrs. Preston prepared the tea, the room fell silent. Laura looked around—the decor was posh and tidy, but felt cold and uninviting. As if this were a showroom, not a home. Mrs. Preston returned with a tray: delicate porcelain cups with a floral pattern, a silver teapot and a plate with the cookies set in a perfect circle. She poured the tea unhurriedly and settled in an armchair opposite, arms crossed. “So, Laura,” she began, scrutinizing the young woman. Her eyes took in every detail—hair, eyes, even how Laura held her cup. “Will tells me you’re in university? Studying to become a nursery teacher?” “Yes, I’m in my third year,” Laura nodded, forcing her hands to stay steady as she put her cup down. “I really enjoy working with children. It’s important—to help them grow, to see them learn.” “Working with children,” Mrs. Preston repeated with faint irony, raising a brow. “Admirable, of course. But you’re aware nursery teachers aren’t exactly well paid? These days, it pays to think ahead—about your future, stability.” Will bristled. “Mum, why always about money? Laura loves her work, that’s what matters. Money will come with time. Supporting each other is more important.” Mrs. Preston turned her head to her son, but made no reply. She sipped her tea slowly, weighing her words. “Passion for your job is wonderful,” she finally said, addressing Laura again. “But the reality is, love alone doesn’t pay bills. Have you thought about where you’ll work after graduation? Any plans for the next few years?” Laura took a deep breath, composing herself. She realised this was more test than conversation. “Yes, of course,” she answered smoothly. “I’m hoping to start in a local nursery, get experience, maybe later take some specialist courses—to work with children with special needs. It won’t be easy, but I feel it’s my calling.” Mrs. Preston nodded silently, gaze unreadable. “I’m not planning to rely on Will,” Laura added. “I want to work and be independent, and believe that we can build a strong relationship—supporting each other not just with money, but by doing things that matter.” “Interesting view,” Mrs. Preston replied, tilting her head. “But have you considered a more lucrative career? With your attributes you could go far in sales, marketing. The pay’s much better.” Will moved to protest, but Laura stopped him with a gesture. She felt it was important to stand her ground. “And what do you do for work?” she asked Mrs. Preston directly. There was a beat of surprise—Mrs. Preston momentarily thrown, then composed herself. “I… I don’t work,” she said after a pause. “My husband provides for us. I manage the home, help him where I can—that’s work too, albeit unpaid.” “I understand,” Laura nodded, growing more resolute. “But if you chose not to work, why insist I must pursue a higher-paid job—giving up what I love—for the sake of money? I’m not asking Will to provide for me.” A heavy silence descended. Mrs. Preston stared at Laura, reassessing her. “My husband wanted me to give up work. He could support us, you see. But Will…” Will shifted uneasily, the tension settling in. “Laura, you know… Mum just wants the best for us, to avoid problems down the line.” Laura looked at him in disbelief. Moments ago he’d defended her; now, he seemed to waver. Her chest tightened—he was doubting her right when she needed him most. “So you agree with her?” she asked evenly. “You think I shouldn’t do what I enjoy? That I should force myself—just for a better salary?” “Well… not exactly…” Will hesitated, fingers twisting nervously. “But Mum’s right about our future. We can’t just live for today. We need to be responsible.” Mrs. Preston turned to Laura, hands still folded, voice softer but insistent. “Laura, do you seriously expect my son to give up his dreams? He’s always wanted to be a journalist, to travel, write—his job is his passion. Will he have to abandon all that, just to provide for a family?” Laura began to reply, but Will jumped in. “Mum, I—” “No, Will. Answer honestly,” Mrs. Preston cut him off. “Are you ready to give up your dreams for this girl? To forget travel, interesting assignments, the work you love?” Will was silent. He looked at Laura, who refused to speak, letting him decide. Inside, he was torn—one part wanted to reassure Laura that together they’d make it, the other feared his mother was right. “I… I don’t want to give up my dream. But I also don’t want to lose Laura. We can find a way for both our careers. We’ll support each other.” Mrs. Preston sighed but gave no further argument. She relaxed back, signalling she’d said her piece. “How funny,” Laura said, not hiding her disappointment. “So Will can keep his dreams, but I must give up mine? I must find a high-paid job while Will just enjoys life? Doesn’t that seem unfair?” Will looked down, hands shaking so the teacup rattled. His thoughts chased each other—they couldn’t please everyone. “Well… maybe you’ll both have to compromise…” he muttered. “Compromise?” Mrs. Preston scoffed. “You know that’s impossible. You either commit to your career or…” She fell silent, her meaning plain. Will bit his tongue; he wanted to protest that people do combine careers and family now, but Mum’s look, as always, made him feel small. “Well, I think that’s enough for today,” Mrs. Preston concluded, standing gracefully. “It’s getting dark and our area gets rough in the evenings. Best you head home, Laura. Will—we need to talk. Now!” It was less suggestion, more decree. Will made a feeble protest. “Mum, maybe I can walk Laura to the bus stop—” “Absolutely not!” she snapped without looking back. “I’ll worry. Stay here.” Will slumped, resigned. Once his mother had decided, there was no point arguing. “Sorry, Laura,” he whispered, eyes lowered. “Maybe Mum’s right. I can’t walk you out. Get a taxi, okay?” Laura just nodded. She put her cup down, collected her things and stood. “Okay,” she said blandly, though inside she seethed with hurt and disappointment. “I’ll go then.” She straightened her cardigan, as if to armour herself. No more forced smiles—she just wanted to leave this house, this perfection that made her feel so out of place. “Thank you for the tea,” she said with measured politeness, and let the icy note show. No more trying to please—only formal courtesy. “Goodbye,” Mrs. Preston replied, still not looking at her. Laura walked to the door, moving calmly despite the tension. At the threshold, she glanced back—Will was slumped, head down, unmoving. He didn’t raise his eyes or try to stop her, or say a word. His silence drew the final line in her mind. Outside, she breathed the cool evening air. Some tension faded. Anger, hurt and disappointment battled inside, but one thing was clear: Will would always choose his mother. Even if it meant choosing against her. She walked, first slowly, then faster, as if she could outrun her thoughts. But they dogged her—”He didn’t defend me. He didn’t stand up for my choices.” She clenched her fists, determined not to cry. At home, she locked herself in, took off her shoes and sat in the hallway. The quiet soothed her. She let herself exhale and allow the storm to subside. She realised—this was not the end of the world. It was just the end of a story, one that perhaps never should have begun. With tomorrow would come new opportunities. And she knew she’d manage. ******************* The next day, Laura ignored Will’s calls. She needed time to decide what she wanted. Even if they stayed together, she’d always have to compete with his mum. And Will… would always hesitate. Every choice, every decision would have to pass through Mrs. Preston’s filter. The future looked bleak. Days went by, Laura drifting through her studies and routines on autopilot. She tried not to think of Will, but the memory of their last conversation, his silence, haunted her. After a few days, coming home from class, Laura spotted a familiar face near her building. “Laura!” She turned. Will stood by the gate, hunched, hands in pockets, avoiding her eyes. “We need to talk,” he began, staring at the pavement. “Mum told me… really, she thinks you’re not right for me.” Laura raised her eyebrows. Inside she braced herself, but kept her voice calm. “And what do you think?” she asked. Will shuffled his feet. “She’s my mum,” he finally said. “I don’t want to upset her.” It sounded less like a conviction than an excuse. “So you agree with her?” Laura asked, though she already knew. “I’m not saying I agree,” Will said quickly, “but she’s family. I can’t just turn my back.” He stopped, hoping Laura would rescue the conversation. She was silent, thinking: What if this never changed? What if every decision always meant choosing between me and his mum? “Do you want to be with me?” she finally asked, meeting his gaze. Will hesitated, mouth opening, but no words came. He sighed and slumped his shoulders, unable to give her the answer she needed. Laura nodded, as if confirming what she’d long suspected. She didn’t demand anything more; she simply turned and headed inside, leaving Will on the pavement. That evening, Laura walked through quiet, autumn-scented streets. For the first time in days, she laughed. The sound was light, almost care-free. Looking up at the scattered lights, she realised: whatever lies ahead, she can face it. She no longer needed to fit anyone’s expectations. She was free. And that was the most important thing of all.

Couldn’t Hold Out Any Longer “I’m filing for divorce,” Vera said calmly as she handed her husband a cup of tea. “Actually, I already have.” She said it like it was nothing out of the ordinary, almost as if she were announcing, “chicken with veg for dinner.” “May I ask, why the— Oh, never mind, not in front of the kids,” Arthur lowered his voice when he saw their two anxious faces. “What did I do wrong? Not to mention, the boys need a father.” “You think I won’t find them another one?” Vera rolled her eyes with a dramatic smirk. “What did you do wrong? Everything! I hoped life with you would be a tranquil lake, but it’s more like a raging river.” “Alright boys, finished eating?” Not wanting to continue this discussion in front of the kids, Arthur sent them off to play. “And no eavesdropping!” he shouted after them, knowing his sons all too well. “Now, where were we?” Vera pursed her lips with annoyance. Even now, he was trying to call the shots! Playing the perfect father… “I’m done living like this. I hate spending eight hours a day at work, smiling at colleagues, grovelling to clients… I want to sleep till noon, shop at posh boutiques, go to beauty salons. And you can’t give me that. I gave you the best ten years of my life!” “Can we spare the drama?” Arthur interrupted dryly. “Wasn’t it you, ten years ago, who did everything possible to marry me? I wasn’t exactly desperate to get wed.” “Mistakes happen.” The divorce went through quickly and quietly. Arthur, not without reservations, agreed the boys would stay with their mother but would spend every weekend and holiday with him. Vera happily agreed. Six months later, Arthur introduced the boys to his new wife. Smiling, full-of-life Lucy quickly won their hearts, and soon the boys looked forward to their weekends, much to Vera’s annoyance. What infuriated her even more was that Arthur inherited a sizeable fortune from a distant uncle, bought a large house in the countryside, and was living the good life. He hadn’t quit his job, still paid modest child support—preferring to clothe and equip his sons himself, even micromanaging the child support payments! Why on earth hadn’t she held out just six more months? If only Vera had known… Oh, how differently things would have turned out! But perhaps all isn’t lost? ***** “How about a cuppa? Like the good old days,” Vera smiled suggestively, twirling her long hair. Her short dress showed off her best features, and the carefully applied makeup took years off her face. She’d put in the effort—she looked flawless! “I haven’t got time,” Arthur replied, barely glancing at his ex-wife. “Are the boys ready?” “They’re still looking for something, they’ll be another ten minutes at least, I’m sure,” Vera said, trying again. “Maybe we could celebrate New Year’s together? Nick and Josh spent ages decorating the tree.” “We agreed at court—holidays are mine. This year, we’re off to our favourite snowy village—skiing, sledging, Lucy’s arranged everything.” “But… That’s a family holiday…” “And we’ll celebrate—as a family. If you complain, I’ll go for full custody.” As the door shut behind Arthur and their joyful boys, Vera shattered the expensive set of cups from their wedding in a rage. Lucy—always Lucy! Pretending to be delighted to see the boys, but surely counting down the minutes until they left? Vera, of all people, knew how boisterous her sons could be. But that was an idea… Vera smiled slyly. It wasn’t over yet. Soon all of Arthur’s money would be in her sole possession… ***** “And what’s this?” Arthur asked, raising an eyebrow at the suitcases by the door. “What do you think? The boys’ things,” Vera nudged a bulging suitcase. “You’ve sorted your personal life, so now it’s my turn. Not every man will take on someone else’s kids, so it’s time the boys lived with you. I’ve told social services, just need to make it official. That’s your job, though—I’m off for a well-earned getaway with a promising new chap.” Leaving Arthur speechless, Vera marched toward her waiting car. How long would that “perfect” Lucy last, she wondered—one week? Two? Surely two weeks, max. Arthur would have to choose between his kids and his new wife. He’d pick his sons and come running back to her. With all the money in tow… Two weeks passed. A month. Two. No call demanding he take the boys back. Judging by the boys’ stories, Lucy hadn’t even raised her voice! How could that be? Had these two little terrors suddenly become angels? Impossible! “So, how are the boys? Not too much trouble?” Vera couldn’t contain herself and rang her ex-husband. “They’re wonderful, well-behaved, helpful,” Arthur’s tone warmed instantly at the mention of the boys. “Couldn’t ask for better sons.” “Really?” Vera was incredulous. “With me, they were always up to mischief…” “That’s because children need attention,” Arthur replied dismissively. “But you were always glued to your phone. Also, just so you’re aware—we’re moving. I’ll bring the boys to see you during the holidays if you want.” “But… They’re my children, too!” “You signed all rights over to me,” he laughed openly. “Some mother you are!” Vera was left tearing her hair out. The husband (or rather, the money) not returned. The new lover not working out. And now even her children would be far away. Not that she’d miss them much—she rather liked having all her free time to herself. After ten years of patience, to drop out of the race just six months before the finish line… So unfair…