Impossible to Completely Forget: Every Evening, Prokhor’s Long Commute Home Through the London Underground and Buses Reminded Him of His Past—Two Years After a Quiet Separation from His Wife, Encountering His Lost First Love, Mary Anne, Now a Renowned Herbal Healer from Their Countryside Schooldays, Reawakens Memories and Sets Him on a Journey Back to His Roots and Heart

Author Emily TaylorReading 8 minViews 2

Its strange how some memories persist. Every evening after work, Id find myself back on the train, then a bus, before finally arriving home. The commute was over an hour both ways, and my car sat idle more often than notLondon traffic in the mornings and evenings is so hopeless that the Tubes my best bet.

Its been about two years now since my marriage ended. Ellen and I parted ways quietly; neither of us wanted any drama, and Ive never been one for arguments. Our daughter, Harriet, was seventeen at the time and stayed with her mother. Id noticed Ellen changing long before thatmore on edge, disappearing without explanation, coming home late and blaming it on seeing friends.

One evening, as I asked her, Why are you out so late? Surely most wives are home by now.

She shot back, Thats not my style. Those housebound wives are dull as dishwater. Im sociable and clever and cant stand sitting at home. And Im no country bumpkin like you.

So why did you marry me if thats how you see me? I asked.

She shrugged, Picked the lesser of two evils, I suppose, and left it at that.

Eventually, Ellen filed for divorce, kicked me out, and I had to find my own place. Ive settled into it now. Havent given marriage a second shot yet, even though I keep half an eye out.

So, there I was, on the Tube like always, scrolling through my phone while the train clattered on. I wasted no timecaught up on news, read a few jokes, watched short clips. And then suddenly, something stopped me cold. An advert caught my eye: Traditional Herbal Remedies Mary, Local Healer.

I stared harder. Maryit was her. My first love, if you want to call it that. Unrequited and hopeless, but unforgettable all the same. I remembered her so vividlyMary Atwood from our class, odd but beautiful.

I was so distracted, I nearly missed my stop. I dashed out, skipped the bus, and walked home, carried by a strange energy. I let myself in, tossed my coat on a chair, and sat in the corridor, mesmerised by my phones glow. Jotted down her number before my phone flashed low battery.

Plugging the phone in, I forced myself to fix a quick dinner, but couldnt manage much more than poking at the food. Sat on the sofa instead, and let my memory unfurl.

From primary school, Mary Atwood always stood outquiet, proper, with a thick plait tumbling down her back and a skirt longer than anyone else’s. Our village was tight-knit, but no one seemed to know much about her. She lived with her grandparents in a charming house on the edge of the woodsone of those with wooden trim and stained glass, almost like something from a fairy tale.

When I first saw her, I was smittenchildishly so, but I thought it serious then. Everything about Mary was different. She wore a scarf over her head outside, always carried this unique embroidered satchel, handmade it turned out.

Instead of the usual Hello, shed say, Wishing you good health, as if she stepped out of a storybook. Never rowdy, never loud, gentle and polite.

Once, Mary didnt show up for lessons. Some of us decided to check on her after school; I went along. Just past the bend, her house looked magicalbut outside were mourners. Her grandmother had died. Mary stood quietly, dabbing her tears, her grandfather spent and silent beside her. After the service, we were invited in for tea and sandwiches.

The memory lingeredmy first funeral, and how Mary appeared in school a couple of days later. We all grew, the girls blossoming, competing over makeup and outfits. Only Mary remained untouched by fads, upright and fresh-faced, with a delicate blush.

Boys began chasing girls, and I tried too, finally working up the nerve near the end of Year Eleven. Mary, can I walk you home from school?

She looked at me, somber, and whispered, Im spoken for, Tom. Its our family custom.

I was disappointed and confused about this custom. Later, I learnt her grandparents were old believers and her parents had died, so theyd raised her.

Mary excelled academically; no one was surprised. She wore no jewellery, never bothered with the gossip other girls whispered behind her back. She stayed dignified.

With every passing year, she became more radiantby sixth form, she was graceful and lovely. The lads admired her but never teased or mocked.

After school, we scattered. I moved to London for university, only hearing that Mary married the man chosen for her and settled in a far-off village. She kept livestock, did chores, raised a son. None of us saw her again.

So shes a healer now, I thought, scanning the advert. Amazing. And even more beautiful.

Sleep didnt come easily. The next morning, I stumbled through my routinebreakfast, then off to workmy past tugging at me, Marys image hovering.

First loves really do carve up the heart. They never quite let go.

The days blurred by. I couldnt help myself and messaged her.

Hello, Mary.

Wishing you good health, she repliedsome things never change. How can I help you? Any worries?

Its Tom. Your old classmate. Sat next to you at school. Spotted your advert online and thought Id say hello.

I remember you, Tom. You were always the brightest of the boys.

I saw your numbercan I call?

Of course. Go ahead.

That evening, after work, I dialled. We caught upliving situations, families.

Im in London, I said, working. You?

I came back to my old home, the one you know. Returned after my husband dieda bear in the forest Grandfathers gone too.

Im sorry, Mary. I didnt know.

Its alright, Tom; it was long ago. Life happens. And you? Calling as a herbalist client or just for a chat? I do offer advice

Just felt like talking. No herbs needed, just saw your photo and all the memories came flooding back. Ive not been home in years. My mum passed ages ago.

We reminisced, named classmates, then said goodbye. I fell back into my routine, but within a week, I called her again, unable to shake the longing.

Hello, Mary.

Wishing you good health, Tom. Missed me or feeling ill?

Missed you, honestly. Would you mind if I came to see you? Id like to visit. I barely whispered it, heart thumping.

Come along, she said, unexpectedly. Whenever you can.

My annual leave starts next week! I blurted, grateful.

Perfect! You know the address, she replied, sounding happy. I swear I could hear a smile.

All week, I preparedpondered what gifts to bring Mary, unsure if shed changed. A week later, I set out, driving six hours back to my roots. I love long drives through the countryside.

My old village caught me by surprise after turning off the main road. So many changesnew houses, a working factory, busy high street, shops and cafes. I stopped outside a grocery to look around.

Blimey, I expected this place to be faded, but its thriving! I said aloud.

An elderly chap overheard as he passed, Its not a village anymore, sonwere a market town now! Got the status years back; looks like you havent been around for some time?

Not for ages, I replied.

Thats thanks to our town councilgood leadership, and its paid off.

Mary was waiting in her front gardenI rang when I was near. Soon, I saw her waving, heart pounding so hard I felt it in my throat. No one ever knew shed had quiet feelings for me all those years. Had I not reached out, shed have carried the secret to her grave.

Our reunion was joyful. We talked for hours in the gazebo behind her old, charming houseit had aged, but felt as welcoming as ever.

Mary, Ive come on account of something serious, I said, nerves and hope tangled.

She met my gaze, a little tense. Go on, what is it?

Ive loved you all my life. Will you ever love me back? I asked, voice steady for once.

Mary jumped up and hugged me tight, tears glinting. Tom, Ive loved you too, since we were children.

I spent my holiday with her, and before leaving promised, Ill sort things at work, switch to remote, and move back for good. Born here, meant to stayno place Id rather be. I laughed, completely certain.

You’re Just Jealous “Mum, are you serious? The Savoy? That’s at least five hundred pounds for dinner! Per person.” Igor threw his keys onto the sideboard so they rattled against the wall. Olga turned from the hob, where she was stirring the sauce, and instantly noticed her husband’s whitened knuckles gripping his phone. He listened to his mother for a few more minutes, then swore and abruptly hung up. “What happened?” Instead of answering, Igor slumped into a kitchen chair and stared at his plate of potatoes. Olga switched off the burner, wiped her hands on a tea towel, and sat opposite. “Igor…” “She’s gone absolutely mad. Lost it, completely.” He looked up; Olga saw such a mixture of anger and helplessness in his eyes that her heart clenched. “Remember I told you about that… Victor? From the dance class?” Olga nodded. His mum had mentioned her new companion about a month ago—shyly, fidgeting with the corner of the tablecloth. It had seemed quite sweet: a 58-year-old widow, five years alone, and now—a ballroom dancing club at the community centre, a charming gent who could twirl her in a waltz. “Well.” Igor pushed his plate aside. “She’s taken him to the Savoy. Three times in two weeks. Bought him a suit for four grand. Last weekend they took a trip to Bath—guess who paid for the hotel and tours?” “Mrs Taylor.” “Bingo.” He rubbed his hand down his face. “Mum saved that money for years. For a new boiler. For a rainy day. Now she’s blowing it all on a man she’s known for six weeks. Unreal…” Olga fell silent, choosing her words. She knew her mother-in-law well—romantic, open, almost guilelessly trusting. The sort of woman who believes in true love even after half a century on earth. “Listen, Igor…” She covered his hand with hers. “Your mum’s an adult. Her money, her choices. Don’t interfere. She won’t hear anyone right now.” “She’s making mistake after mistake!” “Yes. And she has a right to. And frankly, you’re exaggerating.” Igor shrugged, but didn’t pull away. “I just can’t watch her—” “I know, love. But you can’t live her life for her.” Olga stroked his wrist. “She has to take responsibility—even if we don’t like it. She’s perfectly capable.” Igor nodded morosely. …Two months passed in a flash. Talk of Victor faded—his mum phoned less and seemed evasive, as if she were hiding something. Olga decided the romance had fizzled and stopped worrying. So when the doorbell rang on Sunday evening and Mrs Taylor was on the doorstep, Olga didn’t know what to think. “Darlings! My dear darlings!” She swept into the flat, trailing clouds of sweet perfume. “He proposed! Look! Look!” A ring with a tiny stone sparkled on her finger. Cheap, but Mrs Taylor looked at it as if it was a great diamond. “We’re getting married! Next month! He’s so, so…” She pressed her hands to her cheeks and laughed—a bright, girlish sound. “I never thought, at my age… That I’d ever feel this again…” Igor hugged his mum, and Olga saw his shoulders relax. Maybe things weren’t so bad. Maybe Victor really did love her, and they’d only been worrying for nothing. “We’re happy for you, mum.” Igor let go and smiled. “You deserve to be happy.” “And I’ve already signed the flat over to him! Now we’re a proper family!” Mrs Taylor announced, and time seemed to freeze. Olga stopped breathing. Igor jerked, as if he’d walked into a glass wall. “What… what did you say?” “The flat.” She waved her hand, oblivious to their faces. “So he knows I trust him. It’s love, darlings, real love! And love is built on trust.” A silence thick enough to hear the clock ticking in the sitting room. “Mrs Taylor.” Olga spoke first, slowly, carefully. “You’ve signed your flat over to a man you’ve known three months? Before the wedding?” “And?” Mrs Taylor tilted her chin. “I trust him. He’s a good, decent man. Not what you imagine. You think badly of him, I know you do.” “We don’t think anything,” Olga stepped forward. “But maybe you could’ve waited until after the ceremony. Why rush?” “You don’t understand. This… This is proof of my love.” Mrs Taylor folded her arms. “What do you know about real feelings? About trust?” Igor finally unclenched his jaw: “Mum—” “No!” She stamped her foot, suddenly more stubborn teenager than grown woman. “I don’t want to hear it! You’re just jealous of my happiness! You want to ruin it for me!” She spun and rushed out, banging the door so hard the glass rattled in the cabinet. The wedding was small—a registry office in Enfield, charity shop dress, and a three-rose bouquet. But Mrs Taylor glowed as if she was marrying in Westminster Abbey. Victor—a portly man with a receding hairline and oily smile—played the perfect gentleman. Kissing her hand, pulling out her chair, topping up her prosecco. The ideal groom. Olga watched him over her glass. Something wasn’t right. His eyes—when he looked at Mrs Taylor, the pupils stayed cold, calculating. Practised affection. Rehearsed care. She kept her thoughts to herself. What was the point of talking when no one listened? The first months, Mrs Taylor called every week—bubbling with excitement, listing restaurants and theatres he took her to. “He’s so thoughtful! Yesterday he brought me roses—just because!” Igor nodded along, then hung up and sat in silence, staring into space. Olga said nothing. She waited. A year passed in a blur. Then—the doorbell… Olga opened the door to a woman she barely recognised. Mrs Taylor looked ten years older—deeper wrinkles, hollow eyes, hunched shoulders. One hand gripped her battered suitcase, the very one that once went to Bath. “He threw me out.” Mrs Taylor sobbed. “Filed for divorce and threw me out. The flat… it’s his now. Legally.” In silence, Olga let her in. The kettle boiled quickly. Mrs Taylor sat clutching her cup with both hands, crying quietly, hopelessly. “I loved him so. I did everything for him. And he just…” Olga didn’t interrupt. Just rubbed her back as the tears ran dry. Igor returned an hour later, paused in the doorway, and his face went hard. “Son.” Mrs Taylor rose, held her hands out. “Son, I’ve nowhere to go… You wouldn’t turn your mum out, would you? Give me a room—I won’t take up much. Children are meant to care for their parents, that’s—” “Stop.” Igor raised his hand. “Stop, mum.” “I have no money. None. I spent it all on him, every penny. The pension’s small, you know—” “I warned you.” “What?” “I warned you.” Igor sank onto the sofa, heavy as if the world’s weight was on him. “Said don’t rush. Said get to know him. Said don’t sign over the flat. Do you remember what you told me?” Mrs Taylor’s eyes dropped. “That I didn’t know true love. That we were just jealous. I remember everything, mum.” “Igor…” Olga tried to stop him, but he shook his head. “No. Let her hear it.” He turned to his mum. “You’re a grown woman. You made your choice. You ignored everyone who tried to stop you. And now, you want us to deal with the fallout?” “But I’m your mother!” “That’s exactly why I’m angry!” Igor shot to his feet, voice cracking. “I’m tired, mum! Tired of watching you throw your life away, then run to me for rescue!” Mrs Taylor shrank, small and pitiful. “He lied to me, son. I really loved him, I trusted—” “Trusted him so much you handed the flat to a stranger. Brilliant, mum. Just brilliant. And what about the fact that Dad bought this flat!” “Forgive me.” The tears flowed again. “Forgive me. I was blind, I know. But please… let me have one more chance. I’ll never—” “Adults bear the consequences of their choices.” Igor’s voice was quiet, tired. “You wanted independence? You’ve got it. Sort your own accommodation. Find a job. You’re on your own.” Mrs Taylor left, sobbing loudly on the landing. Olga spent the whole night beside Igor—silent, just holding his hand. Igor didn’t cry. Just lay staring at the ceiling, sighing from time to time. “Did I do the right thing?” he murmured at dawn. “Yes.” Olga stroked his cheek. “It was hard. It hurt. But yes.” In the morning, Igor called his mum and rented her a room in a house-share at the edge of town. Paid six months up front. It was the last help he agreed to. “From now on, you’re on your own, mum. On your own. If you go to court, we’ll help with legal fees. But living here—no.” Olga listened and wondered about justice. About how, sometimes, the harshest lesson is the only one that works. Mrs Taylor got exactly what her blindness brought. And somehow that was both bitter and comforting. And she knew, deep down, this wasn’t the end, and somehow, things would work out. She didn’t know how—but they would…

Dandelion Jam The snowy winter has finally ended. It wasn’t very harsh this year—just mild and filled with flurries—but even so, it’s worn out its welcome, and now everyone longs for green leaves, colourful sights, and the chance to shed their heavy winter coats. Spring arrives in a sleepy English market town. Tasha adores spring, eagerly awaiting the return of nature—and finally, she’s rewarded. Peering from her third-floor flat window, she muses: “With these warm spring days, the whole town seems to have woken from a long, wintry slumber. Even the traffic hums differently now, and the market is alive again. People in bright jackets and coats bustle here and there, and the morning birds are noisier than our alarm clocks. Oh, spring is lovely, but summer… that’s even better!” Tasha has lived in this five-storey block for years. Now, she shares it with her granddaughter, Vera, who’s in Year Four. Vera’s parents—both doctors—moved to Africa for work a year ago, entrusting their daughter to her gran. “Mum, we’re leaving Vera in your care. No dragging her halfway across the world! We know you’ll watch over your favourite granddaughter,” Tasha’s daughter declared. “Oh, of course I will—I’ll be happier with company! Now off you go, Vera and I’ll manage just fine,” Tasha replied. “Yay, Gran! Just you and me—plenty of trips to the park, and more time together. Mum and Dad are always too busy!” Vera cheered. After serving breakfast and sending Vera off to school, Tasha busied herself with housework—time slipped away. “I’ll pop to the shop before Vera gets back—she earned a treat for her top marks,” she thought, pulling on her boots. She left her flat to find two neighbours already perched on the communal bench, cushions beneath them to soften the chill. Mrs Simmons—ageless and living alone, perhaps seventy, perhaps more—keeps her birthday a secret and occupies a ground floor studio. Valerie, a lively 75-year-old, well-read and brimming with tales, is Simmons’s opposite—always laughing and full of life. As soon as the snow melts and the sun warms the ground, this bench is never empty, and Simmons and Valerie are its regulars. They spend all day chatting, with the briefest interlude for lunch at home. They know everything about everyone in the block—not even a fly gets past their watchful eyes. Sometimes Tasha joins them to swap stories—TV shows, books, the latest local news. Mrs Simmons is fond of discussing her blood pressure. “Morning, ladies!” Tasha grinned. “Already on duty?” “Morning, Tosh! Of course—otherwise they’d mark us absent. Off to the shop, are you?” Simmons declared, eyeing Tasha’s shopping bag. “Spot on. Vera’s expecting something sweet for her stellar grades,” Tasha waved, heading off. The day passed in a blur. Tasha picked up Vera from school, fed her supper, then Vera buried herself in homework while Tasha watched a bit of television. “Gran, I’m off to dance!” Vera chirped. Vera’s been in dance class six years now—she loves it, performing at all the local events. And proud Tasha can’t help but glow when speaking of her talented granddaughter. “All right, Vera dear—off you go!” said Gran, sending her to rehearsals. Later, Tasha waits alone on the bench for Vera to return from dance. “Feeling lonely?” Her second-floor neighbour, Mr Gordon, took a seat beside her. “How could I be, on a day like this? It’s spring. Gorgeous weather!” Tasha replied. “Yes, the sun’s warming up, the birds are singing—everywhere’s turning green, and those yellow coltsfoot flowers look just like tiny little suns,” Mr Gordon smiled. At that moment, Vera sneaked up and flung her arms around Gran’s neck. “Woof, woof!” “You little rascal! You nearly scared me to death!” Tasha laughed. “Now, now—bit soon to joke about that!” chuckled Mr Gordon, patting her shoulder. “Come along, mischief. I’ve grated carrots with sugar and fried your favourite meatballs. You must be tired after all that dancing,” Gran coaxed, ushering Vera home. Mr Gordon rose to follow them. “What? You’re heading inside too?” Tasha asked. “You made those meatballs sound so good, I got hungry! Maybe I’ll come back out for a stroll later.” Mr Gordon winked. “I can’t promise—busy day! Maybe though…” Tasha smiled. She did come back out for a bit in the evening, just in case. Mr Gordon was waiting—and for once, the regular bench warmers had gone home. “Mrs Simmons and Valerie just slipped away for dinner,” Mr Gordon said cheerfully. From that night on, Tasha and Mr Gordon often met in the park, reading the paper together, swapping stories, recipes, and laughter beneath the old linden tree. Mr Gordon hadn’t had an easy life. Once, he had a wife, daughter, and grandson—but he was widowed young and raised his daughter, Vera, alone while struggling to make ends meet on double shifts. He rarely saw her, as she was often asleep when he left and again when he returned. Vera eventually grew up, married, moved to another city, and had a son. She visited infrequently, and their meetings lacked warmth. After fifteen years, Vera separated from her husband and raised her boy solo. “Tash, my daughter’s coming to visit in two days. Called this morning. Strange… we’ve not spoken in years,” Mr Gordon confided. “Maybe she’s feeling sentimental; getting older makes you treasure family,” Tasha suggested. “I’m not so sure…” he sighed. Vera arrived—sharp, unsmiling, purposeful. Mr Gordon braced for a serious conversation. “Dad, I’m here for a reason. Let’s sell your flat. Come live with us—with your grandson—won’t that be more fun?” Vera said, clearly having made up her mind. But Mr Gordon felt uneasy, not wanting to uproot to a distant city and become a burden to his frosty daughter. He refused, claiming he liked his independence. Vera persisted. Learning of her dad’s friendship with Tasha, she marched over during tea. Tasha served up biscuits and her homemade jam. “So, Vera—what brings you here?” Tasha greeted gently. “I see you’re quite friendly with my father. Can I ask a favour?” “What is it?” “Convince him to sell his flat. Why should one old man rattle around in a space like that? Can’t you think of others?” Vera said, her tone sharp. Startled by Vera’s bluntness, Tasha declined. Vera lost her cool—face red, voice shrill—accusing Tasha of angling for the flat herself, questioning their park strolls, and even their discussion of dandelion recipes. “You two—just a pair of dandelions! Having your little chats, planning your schemes. Have you registered at the registry office yet? Well, it won’t work. Nothing will work—got it, you old hag!” she spat, slamming the door on her way out. Tasha felt embarrassed, hoping the neighbours hadn’t overheard. Soon, though, Vera was gone and Tasha avoided Mr Gordon, rushing home at the sight of him. But fate has its own plans. One afternoon, returning from the shop, Tasha saw Mr Gordon waiting by the bench—he held a bunch of yellow dandelions, deftly weaving them into a garland. “Tasha, don’t rush off,” he pleaded. “Wait a minute. I’m sorry for my daughter. Really. I know what she said… We’ve had a long talk. My grandson will always have my help. But Vera—she’s gone now. Said she no longer has a father. So—here, take this garland. I made dandelion jam; it’s really tasty, very healthy. You must try some. And they’re good in salads too,” he smiled. After that chat, they made a salad together. Tasha enjoyed tea with dandelion jam—she loved it. That evening, they headed to the park again. “I’ve got the latest issue of our favourite magazine,” Mr Gordon said, settling onto their bench beneath the linden tree. Tasha sat beside him, and conversation sparkled—the world faded away, and all that mattered was two friends, together, sharing spring. Thank you for reading, subscribing, and supporting me. Wishing you all the best in life!

Just a Childhood Friend — Are you seriously planning to spend your entire Saturday sorting junk in the garage? The whole day? — Ellie speared a piece of cheesecake with her fork and shot a sceptical look at the tall, ginger-haired lad opposite her. Ian leaned back in his chair, warming his hands on his cooling cappuccino. — Ellie… That’s not junk, those are my childhood treasures. My “Love Is” bubblegum wrapper collection is somewhere in there, I’ll have you know. Can you imagine what riches await? — Oh my god. You kept gum wrappers. Since what year? Ellie snorted, shoulders shaking with barely suppressed laughter. This café, with its well-worn plum-coloured sofas and eternally misted-up windows, had long since become their territory. The waitress, Mari, no longer asked what they wanted—she just put a cappuccino down for him, a latte for her, and the day’s dessert to share. Fifteen years of friendship had turned this into ritual. — Alright, I’ll admit it, — said Ian, saluting with his mug — the garage can wait. My treasures too. Kieran’s invited us for a barbecue on Sunday, if you’re keen. — I know. He spent three hours yesterday picking out a new grill online. Three. Hours. I thought my eyes would glaze over with boredom. Their laughter melted into the hum of the coffee machine and the quiet buzz from other tables… …There were never any awkward silences or unspoken words between them—they knew each other as well as they knew their own hands. Ellie remembered when skinny Year 8 Ian, with perpetually untied laces, was the first to greet her in a new class. Ian remembered she was the only one who didn’t mock his chunky specs. Kieran had accepted their friendship from the very start, without question or suspicion. He watched his wife and her childhood friend with the calm of someone who trusts completely. On Friday nights of Monopoly and Uno, Kieran laughed loudest when Ian lost to his wife at Scrabble yet again, and topped up everyone’s tea while the other two argued over the rules of charades. — He’s cheating, that’s why he always wins, — Ellie announced once, tossing playing cards at her husband. — It’s called strategy, my love, — Kieran retorted, unruffled, as he gathered the scattered cards. Ian watched them with a fond smile. He liked Kieran—steady, reliable, with such dry wit you never knew when he was joking. Ellie blossomed around her husband, became softer, happier, and Ian celebrated her joy the way only a true friend could. That balance shifted when Vera came into their world… …Kieran’s sister turned up on their doorstep a month ago, eyes red with exhaustion and determined to begin afresh. The divorce had drained her completely, leaving only bitterness and an aching emptiness where some semblance of stability had once been. On the first evening Ian came round for their usual board game, Vera looked up from her phone and sized him up like some distant mechanism had been triggered inside her. Here stood a man—calm, kind-eyed, with a smile you couldn’t help but return. — This is Ian, my mate from school, — Ellie introduced. — And this is Vera, Kieran’s sister. — Lovely to meet you, — Ian said, offering a hand. Vera held it a second longer than necessary. — Likewise. From then on, Vera’s “accidental” appearances became routine. She’d show up at their favourite café at exactly the time Ellie and Ian were there. She’d float into the room with a plate of biscuits just as Ian arrived. She’d squeeze in dangerously close at the board game table, shoulders brushing. — Could you pass me that card? — Vera leaned over his arm, her hair “accidentally” brushing his neck. — Oops, sorry. Ian would politely draw away, murmuring something mild. Ellie exchanged glances with her husband, but Kieran only shrugged—Vera had always been a bit much. It became blatant. Vera steadily fixed her gaze on Ian, showered him with compliments, found any excuse to touch his arm. She laughed at his jokes so loudly Ellie’s ears rang. — You’ve such beautiful hands, so long and elegant. Play piano? — Vera caught his hand one night over the Scrabble tiles. — Um, I’m a software engineer. — Still beautiful. Ian gently pulled away, staring at his cards with exaggerated focus. He blushed. By the third invite for a “friendly chat over coffee,” Ian gave in. He liked Vera—she was lively, fun, vibrant. Maybe, he thought, if they actually dated, she’d stop giving him that hungry look and things could just go back to normal. The first weeks of their romance went well—Vera was beaming, Ian relaxed, family evenings became normal again. Then Vera noticed what she’d rather not. She saw Ian brighten when Ellie entered. How his face opened around her. How easily they picked up each other’s jokes, finished each other’s sentences, shared a connection she could never reach. Jealousy bloomed in Vera’s chest. — Why do you see her all the time? — Vera blocked Ian’s path, arms folded. — She’s my friend. Fifteen years, Vera. That’s— — I’m your girlfriend! Me! Not her! The rows came in waves. Vera cried, accused, demanded. Ian explained, pleaded. — You think about her more than me! — Vera, that’s just not true. We’re just friends. — Just friends don’t look at each other like that! Ian’s phone buzzed every time he was with Ellie. — Where are you? When are you back? Why aren’t you answering? With her again? He learned to mute it, but Vera started turning up—in the café, the park, outside Ellie’s house—flustered, eyes blazing with jealous tears. — Vera, please — Ian rubbed his temples. — This is crazy. — Crazy is you spending more time with someone else’s wife than your own girlfriend! Ellie was exhausted too. Every meet-up became a trial—when would Vera appear, with what fresh accusations, what drama? — Maybe I should see you less… — Ellie started. But Ian cut her off: — No. Absolutely not. You are not reorganising your life for her tantrums. None of us are. But Vera had already decided: if honesty wouldn’t work, she’d bend the truth. Kieran was in the kitchen when Vera breezed in. — Big brother, I need to tell you something. I really didn’t want to, but… you deserve the truth… …She spun her story in careful doses, sobbing in all the right places. Secret meetings, lingering looks, Ian supposedly holding Ellie’s hand when no one was looking. Kieran listened in silence, giving nothing away. When Ellie and Ian walked in an hour later, the atmosphere in the lounge was thick as syrup. Kieran lounged in his armchair with the expression of a man expecting a show. — Sit, — he motioned to the sofa. — My sister’s just told me a rather… fascinating story about your secret affair. Ellie froze mid-step. Ian stiffened. — What the hell… — She claims to have witnessed some compromising things. Vera shrank into her seat, unable to meet anyone’s eyes. Ian spun round so suddenly that Vera recoiled. — That’s enough, Vera. I should have drawn the line ages ago! His face was ashen with fury—the ever-calm, patient Ian now simmering over. — We’re through. Right now. — You can’t— Her tears, for once, were real. — It’s her! — Vera jabbed a finger at Ellie. — It’s always her! You always choose her! Ellie let the silence stretch, allowing her sister-in-law to let it all out. — You know, Vera, — she said quietly, — if you hadn’t tried to manage every second of his life, if you didn’t make scenes out of nothing, none of this would’ve happened. You destroyed what you were trying to keep. Vera snatched her handbag and stormed out, slamming the door. Kieran burst out laughing at last—genuine, head thrown back, amusement pouring out. — Good grief, finally. He pulled Ellie in, arm around her shoulders. — You didn’t believe her, did you? — Ellie pressed her nose to his neck. — Not for a second. I’ve watched you two for years. It’s like brother and sister squabbling over the last biscuit. Ian let out a long breath as the tension finally broke. — Sorry for dragging you into this circus. — Don’t be. Vera’s a grown woman—it’s her own responsibility. Now let’s eat. The lasagne’s getting cold, and I won’t reheat it just because of someone else’s drama. Ellie laughed softly, relief in her voice. Her family was whole. Her friendship with Ian survived. And her husband had once again proved his trust was ironclad. They headed for the kitchen, where golden lasagne gleamed beneath the lamps—and the world slid easily, quietly, back into place.