Urgent Need for a Husband
Mum, you really, really need to find yourself a new husband! And its got to happen as soon as possible, absolutely right now!
Evelyn nearly dropped her cup of tea, a few drops spilling onto the tablecloth. She placed it on the table, cleared her throat, and stared at her daughter.
Explain yourself, she said, trying to sound calm. Where on earth is this coming from?
Claire shifted from foot to foot, eyes fixed on the pattern of the rug, fidgeting nervously but clearly steadfast in her mission.
You see Today I told Dad you had a boyfriend, she said, sighing as though all the worlds sighs had settled in her chest. He just kept badgering me with questions! Always asking if youd met someone! Every time, I told him no, and then hed go on and on, giving speeches about what a huge mistake you made leaving him. That you must not understand anything about life if you let such a wonderful man go!
She glanced up at her mother, annoyance, confusion, and even a trace of anger towards her father flickering in her eyes.
And and hes always repeating that youll soon realise just how wrong you were, and come back. He says youll never find anyone better. So I snapped. I said youd met someone.
Evelyn ran her hand through her hair, and in her mind echoed the all-too-familiar intonations of her exhis forced confidence, that habit of turning every conversation into a paean to his own brilliance.
I can just imagine the colourful words he uses, she said, a wry edge to her voice. Still hasnt managed to accept that I left him, Mr. Perfect. Sometimes I think Martin asks you over at the weekend just so he can deliver his monologues. Its not about seeing youits his chance to catch up on the latest gossip and nurse his pride.
Claire sighed heavily and flopped onto the sofa, tucking her legs beneath herher favourite pose when a weighty problem was upon her. Leaning into a cushion, she distractedly patted the upholstery, gathering her thoughts.
Yeah, I think so too, she said, gazing somewhere off to the side. He talks about himself for ages. The rest of the time Im totally freehe doesnt even care how I am. Doesnt ask how schools going or if I need anything
She spoke so matter-of-factly, as if recounting her daily routine: wake up, breakfast, school, homework. For Claire, it truly was ordinary; so much so that it no longer roused much feeling.
She leaned back against the sofa, gazing up at the ceiling, her thoughts drifting over the recent conversation with her father. As always, it started with his latest triumphthis time, a blow-by-blow of how cleverly hed handled business with some partners. Then it was on to his grand plans, the terrible difficulties he faced at work, and the injustice of people failing to appreciate his genius. Ninety minutes of non-stop monologueClaire even timed it, so she could tell her mother later.
When she tried to tell him about her maths competition at school, he barely nodded and immediately steered the conversation back to himself. Good for you, but at your age I was already and so the roll call of his achievements started anew.
Claire shrugged, pushing the memory away. Shed long accepted the status quo. For as long as she could remember, her dad had been mesmerised only by his reflection. The rest of the family existed on the margins of his focusimportant, but never enough to distract from the main act: himself.
All conversations inexorably circled back to himhis plight, his victories, his childhood. If her mum moaned about being tired, hed cut in with tales of his own workplace martyrdom. If Claire shared trouble with friends, hed reminisce about his own schooldaysnaturally far more dazzling, more vibrant. Other peoples concerns barely registered, or seemed like trivialities unworthy of his orbit.
Claire could never quite fathom how her mum managed fifteen years by his side. He was fixated on his own shining reflection! Maybe, she thought, her mum stayed for her sake, not wanting Claire to grow up without a dad. As a child, Claire honestly believed hed change one daythat hed begin to notice them, start caring about their lives But years passed, and nothing changed. Only after the divorce did she discover, to her amazement, that life without him was far more peaceful! No one hogged every scrap of attention, treating everyone else as insignificant clutter.
So why is it so urgent that I find a new partner? Evelyns voice cracked a little, perhaps more pointed than she intended. You said what you saidso what?
When Dad heard, he completely changed! Claire winced, hugging a scatter cushion to her chest. He went pale, then red, and then started shouting so loudly even Mrs. Wood next door came rushing up! Honestly, he scared me a bit.
She paused, the memory sharp. Her dads voicesuddenly high and quivering, his fists clenched, eyes darting everywhere. Shed thought he might just burst from sheer emotion.
He demanded to know the mans name, what he looks like, everything, Claire continued, fiddling with the edge of the cushion. I refused to say, told him you asked me not toespecially him Id not be surprised if he calls you soon to have a go.
Evelyn turned to the window and looked at her daughter with renewed attention. An interesting day ahead, no doubt She could imagine Martins performance without difficulty. Thanks, darling, she thought dryly.
She sat down heavily beside Claire, wrapping her up in a warm, comforting hug. Not much to be done nowwords spoken cant be called back.
Why did you make it up? she asked, rocking Claire gently. We were doing perfectly well! Now well get nothing but his tantrums and moaning again. Makes me want to switch off the phone.
Claire gently slipped out of the embrace, sat up and fixed her mother with a serious look. In her eyes shone unshakeable conviction.
Because youre wonderful! she said firmly. Youre clever, beautiful, have loads of friendsand men notice you, Mum! Dyou think I havent seen? But Dad always says awful things about you. Im sick of it!
Evelyn stroked her daughters hair, slender fingers running thoughtfully through the soft locks. Her gaze was tender and ever so slightly uncertain.
I see, sweetheart, I do, she whispered. Honestly, I thought you wouldnt want me to start anything serious yet. Its only six months since the divorce.
She spoke carefully, her own private worries seeping out. Deep down, she had feared her daughter would see a new romance as betrayal, or a way to replace her dad. Evelyn studied Claires face, searching for the faintest flicker of unease.
Nonsense! Claire scoffed, so fiercely determined that Evelyn couldnt help but smile. What matters is you being happy!
Claire folded her arms, a tiny smile lighting her face. At that moment, she looked incredibly grown upwise beyond her years and ready to defend her beliefs.
Relief quietly melted the fears in Evelyns heart as she gazed at her daughter. Claire spoke with such certainty that her doubts began to give way. Maybe Evelyn really had wasted too much time brooding about the past and dreading the future.
Youre my star, she said softly, pulling Claire close once more. Thank you for looking after your mum.
Claire snuggled into her side, settling in comfortably. In that moment, they both felt an even deeper, calmer warmthalmost as if, for all that theyd been through, each day their little family only grew stronger.
*****
Evelyn sat at her desk, fingers hovering above the keyboard, trying to focus on the endless spreadsheet. Words on the screen blurred, and a dull ache throbbed behind her eyes, swelling all morning until it had blossomed at midday into a full-blown headache. She rubbed her temples with slow, mechanical movements, having done so what felt like a hundred times already.
After some hesitation, she finally asked a colleague to nip across the road to Boots; the pharmacy was hardly two minutes from the office. When the painkillers arrived, she chased them with tap water and stared blankly at the paper mountain awaiting her. It was pointless. Her head felt heavy as lead, and every soundthe clatter of keys, the hum of the air-con, even distant voices in the corridorseemed to reverberate through her skull.
Just then, the security guard knocked. He had polite, slightly worried eyes.
Ms. Archer, theres someone here for you, he said, opening the door a crack. Your ex-husband, he says he must see you. Will you come down or shall we encourage him to leave?
Evelyn froze. A surge of irritation and exhaustion swept over her. She inhaled, willing herself to keep cool.
Ill come down, sorry for the bother, she replied, rising from her seat.
Privately, she cursed. Perfect timing, she thought bitterly. The day was already falling apartsplitting headache and now Martin barging in without warning. Why hadnt he just called? Why show up at work, of all placesa building brimming with strangers? Was he planning a scene?
She walked slowly to the exit, knowing haste would only worsen her headache. The corridor was bustling: colleagues dashing to meetings, laughter by the coffee stand, a lively discussion at the noticeboard. As Evelyn passed, she felt the tension gathering at her shoulders.
She emerged into the lobby and immediately spotted Martin. He was pacing madlyone minute leaning on reception, then darting away. His movements were jittery, arms waving as he argued with the guards, his voice rising in agitation. The security team kept a firm but polite distance, clearly itching to intervene properly if necessary.
What do you want? Evelyn demanded as she drew closer, skipping pleasantries. Her voice was even, but inside she rattled with annoyance. Whats with the performance? Fancy meeting the police? I can arrange it.
Martin spun to the sound of her voice. His face was flushed, eyes blazing with a kind of feverrage, or perhaps panic. He sprang at her, finger jabbing accusingly, as if shed been caught mid-crime.
You! he bellowed. You! Claire told me everything! Only six months since we split, and already youve found some new bloke?
His tone wavered between disbelief, hurt, and obvious jealousylike he couldnt quite believe Claire was telling the truth, and now, seeing Evelyns calm, he knew she was.
Evelyn arched an eyebrow, tilting her head just slightly. Her posture was relaxed, but her eyes flashed cold.
Am I meant to stay faithful to you forever? she asked coolly. Even after divorce? Bit much, dont you think? Especially considering fidelity wasnt your strong suit in marriage
Martin hesitated for a moment, hand dropping. Something like confusion flickered in his eyes; he clearly hadnt prepared for this calm, razor-sharp reply.
People passed by: staff, visitors, delivery men Some curious, some desperate not to notice. For Martin and Evelyn, the world shrank to the small stretch of tile between themthick with old wounds, unsaid grievances, and a new reality he couldnt accept.
You you he stammered, but Evelyn cut him off.
Lets not do this, Martin, her voice softer but unyielding. We can talk if you need to, but not like this, not here.
Talk? Ill show you a scene!
Martins voice boomed, echoing across the lobby. His face mottled with rage, veins bristling at his neck, fists twitching. He advanced, then retreated, unable to decide between threat and flight.
I wont let my daughter live with some random man! he shouted, oblivious to the growing audience. Ill take Claire from you! Youll never see her again, never! Ill
His words tumbled out, sharp and shrill, but Evelyn only raised her eyebrow slightly, serene as ever. Take her daughter? Shed like to see him tryno judge would rule against her.
Finished? Brilliant performance, she said with gentle mockery. You should join the circus.
Whats going on here?
Martin froze mid-tirade at the unfamiliar voice. Turning, they saw a man in a crisply tailored navy suit, standing in the doorway to the lobby. He held himself with easy assurance, gaze cool but keen. The security guards, previously patiently restraining Martin, snapped to attentionclearly this was someone important.
Keep out of this! Martin spat, eyes narrowing. His cheeks still glowed with fury. Its none of your business.
The newcomer didnt answer straight away. He stepped closer, stopping just beyond arms reach but watching both carefully. He smiled faintly, which seemed to unsettle Martin even more.
Personal matters are personal when you keep them private, he said at last. But when you have a row in public, its no longer just yours.
Evelyn watched in silence, sensing the tension stretching tighter. She hadnt expected Richard Sinclairher companys managing directorto appear, but his interruption was oddly apt, breaking Martins flood of threats and shouts.
Martin took a defiant step forward, clearly ready to snap, but Richard didnt flinch. He stared back, imperturbable, as if used to much more formidable opponents.
And you are? Martin spat, clinging to the last shreds of bravado. Why are you poking your nose into my affairs?
Richard advanced, stopping beside Evelyn. Without hesitation, he slid his arm gently but deliberately around her waist. There could be no mistake; it was for show.
Me? he said, voice matter-of-fact but steely, so cold that even Martin flinched. Im the man who makes Evelyn happy. You dont get to shout at my partner. I wont tolerate it. If you want to talk about visits to the police, I can arrange that. And if you try to use your daughter as leverage He left the threat hanging in the air, confident that his meaning would be clear.
Martin froze, skin blanching, all traces of bravado slipping away. He glanced between Richard and Evelyn as if dimly realising that he had lost control of the situation. For a long moment, he only stood there, fists clenching and releasing, as if fighting the urge to say something wounding. But no words cameperhaps because of Richards confidence, or just the realisation that his usual tactics were pointless here.
Eventually, he muttered something unintelligible and whirled around. His stride, formerly swaggering, was now awkward, as if desperate not to betray defeat. Just before vanishing through the door, he threw over his shoulder:
As for maintenance, you can forget it!
I dont need your money, Evelyn retorted under her breath as he disappeared, her voice light and almost playful, but with real relief shining through. At least Claire wont have to make those wretched weekend trips anymore.
Suddenly, Evelyn was sharply aware of Richards warm, steady hand on her waist. The simple, meaningful touch made her blush; she dropped her gaze, then carefully stepped aside, trying not to be obvious.
With a soft, slightly embarrassed smile, she turned to her unexpected champion.
Thank you so much, Mr. Sinclair. You cant imagine how much youve helped.
Her words were honest, entirely spontaneous. At that moment, she truly felt gratefulnot only for the rescue, but for Richards calm, capable way.
He smiled back, his expression warming sinuously.
Lunch? he asked, offering her his hand.
Evelyn hesitated for a heartbeat, the old anxiety flickeringwas it too soon, too presumptuous? But she cast the thoughts aside almost immediately. Richard had been respectful, genuine, and she was, in truth, eager to talk to him outside the whirlwind of office politics.
Besides, something tumbled inside her: Who was he, really? What prompted his intervention? What secret lay behind that measured poise?
Id like that, she replied, slipping her hand into his.
His handshake was unexpectedly pleasant: firm, steady, lacking any trace of possessiveness. Evelyn felt the strain from Martins tirade drain away, replaced by a gentle excitement and a pinch of curiosity.
Later, installed opposite each other at a cosy table in a little bistro just down the road, the conversation blossomed. The glow of lamps, the background trill of jazz, the scent of warm sconesit was all comfortingly English, and the world outside faded.
As they spoke freely, she learned that her rescuer had long cared for herhe explained it quietly, no grand flourishes, as if simply stating how things naturally were, something that had always grown inside but never spilled over.
I hesitated for ages, he said, absently stirring his tea. You always seemed so focused, so solitary I knew youd been through an awful patch after the divorce, and I didnt want to crowd you or look like I was taking advantage.
Evelyn listened without interruptionhis voice held no boastfulness, just sincerity and deep respect for her boundaries.
But today, seeing that man bellow at you Richards brow tightened. I just couldnt stand by.
Evelyn found herself smiling despite everything. Shed noticed him before, caught those glancesbut always misunderstood their meaning. Shed liked Richard, had even been drawn to him, but the gulf between their positions seemed too wide for her to make the first move.
*****
Three months after that strange, tense office scene, Evelyn and Richard were married. The wedding was a dreamhe had made certain to fulfil every wish, granting her the small, silly things as well as the significant.
Claire was overjoyed for her mum. On the day itself, she helped Evelyn get ready, ensuring everything was perfectfrom her hair-do to the last button on her dress. When the rings were exchanged, Claire hugged them both close, whispering, Im so happy for you! Her joy was pure and unforced, shining in her eyes.
She did, however, warn Richard she wasnt quite ready to call him Dad.
I like you, Richard, she said one evening, as the three of them watched TV together. And Im glad Mums not on her own. Butwhatever hes likeDad is still Dad to me.
Richard nodded, accepting this easily.
Thats perfectly alright, Claire. What matters is were together.
Martin had received an invitation to the weddingmore as a gesture than an actual request. Evelyn had hesitated about posting the card, but in the end decided: let him know life moves forward, with or without him. Shed sent just the cardno letter, no note.
Naturally, Martin didnt show. He hadnt even considered it; the notion provoked a cocktail of indignation and resentment. Instead, he spent the days afterward ringing round old army of acquaintances and distant relatives.
The first call came just a day after receiving the invitation. Martins tone was forcedly calm, but tension pulsed beneath.
Would you believe it, shes invited me to her wedding! he burst out, not even giving the other person time to say hello. After everything!
An ex-uni mate politely asked what exactly was so outrageous. Martin brushed him off.
How humiliating, really, how could she?
Over the following days, the scene repeated, call after call. Every conversation started the same way, Martin repeating the line about the invitation, voice trembling with outrage, as if determined to wring sympathy from anyone who would listen. It seemed he was just hunting for someoneanyoneto say, That is disgraceful.
The reactions were lukewarm, at best. Some mumbled polite commiserations, some offered the eternal Everyones got their own life, mate, others simply didnt know what to say. With each retelling of his script, Martin sensed his grievances were falling flat.
So, he changed tack, insisting Evelyn was rushing in:
Its only been six months! How can anyone call that love? Shes just running from reality, trying to forget me, can you imagine?
Then, with barely a beat, he would switch topics:
She didnt even give me a chance to fix things! If wed just talkedI could have
He never quite finished the sentence, unable to articulate whether hed get her back, fix himself, or start again.
Sometimes, his complaints strayed into absolute oddity:
I did so much for her, and lookno thanks, just walks away. She took our daughter as well!
Grievances about Evelyns lack of gratitude sounded particularly hollow. Listeners would exchange glances, shoulders raised, and sometimes gently ask:
What exactly should she be thanking you for? You were married, thats just life.
At these points Martin would fall silent, the ache of disappointment growing. He could see that no one was joining him in his fury; nobody called Evelyn unstable or flighty. Rather, people seemed quietly to believe she had every right to live her own lifeand that only vexed him more.
Eventually, drained by these fruitless calls, Martin said nothing more. He sat in his flat, glancing at the odds and ends Evelyn had lefta forgotten hairband, an old photo album on the shelf, a childs dress too small for anyone nowacknowledging, finally, that life was moving forward, even if he couldnt quite find his place in it.
And so, Martin faded into silence. Evelyn, Richard, and Claires world spun in gentle normalitya steady rhythm of shared suppers, Sunday strolls, and little squabbles over which film to watch. Their family grew stronger, day by dreamlike day, in the pale, gently shifting English light.
