My Family
Oh my goodness, Daisy, you look absolutely beautiful! My wife, Margaret, gasped in awe as she stepped into our daughters room.
Daisy stood before the mirror, patiently waiting for her best friend and impromptu stylist, Claire, to finish pinning the veil. As Claire fixed in the last hairpin, Daisy turned to face her mum.
Really, Mum? I look alright?
Gorgeous, love! Youre the most beautiful bride there is! Margaret beamed at Daisy, clearly overcome with emotion. It brought back memoriesher own mum had said the exact same words to her. Perhaps every mother says them when they see their daughter in a wedding dress.
Choosing the dress had taken ages. Daisy had a notoriously discerning eye for clothes, and she didnt care much for trends or other peoples opinions. She just wanted to love what she wore. She had exquisite taste and a figure to match, so no one ever criticised her outfits. Unsurprisingly, she didnt pick the latest fashion for her weddingshe wanted something special, something different. The assistants at the boutique were at a loss: how to please such a particular bride? It was the owner, Caroline, who finally had the answer.
I think Ive got just the thing youre after, she said, ducking out of the showroom and returning moments later with a dress bag. As soon as she opened it, Daisys eyes lit up. That was it.
Simple lines, no fuss. Expensive fabric. Daisy twirled in front of the mirror, and it fit as if it had been made especially for her. Not a single alteration needed.
What do you think?
Ill take it!
Caroline smiled, a trace of sadness flickering in her eyes before she caught herself. It was the dress shed ordered for her own wedding, but that day never came. One cant marry without trust and loveone without the other is impossible. Oh, Andrew, why did it have to end like that? Shed once wanted children and a home, but hed faltered, unable to choose. Well, his decision had been made. Caroline shook herself from her thoughts. No sense dwelling on the past, she told herself. Life goes on.
Theres a lovely veil to go with that dress. Ill fetch it for you.
Back in Daisys room, she winked at her mum. Told you Id find what I wanted.
Margaret nodded, happiness radiating from her. She knew shed remember these days forever as the brightest of her life. It made her think of her own weddingback then, things werent so easy. You couldnt just buy any dress off the pegeither you took what the bridal shop had or made it yourself. Her mums friend had stitched hers, with aunts coming together for fabric and findings. The dress turned out splendid, but it hadnt brought lasting happiness. Margaret split with her husband when Daisy was just two. New love, new heartbreak He wanted neither her nor their child. Daisy grew up without a dad, though he paid maintenancehardly an option, really. Anything less and folk might question his decency. It was just one of those thingsa new family, just a twist of fate. He refused to see Daisy.
I dont need any extra hassle.
Margaret didnt push him. Better no father than one who couldnt love. She tried to move on, hoping to find a caring stepdad for Daisy, but it wasnt to be. The man she lived with for a year loved Margaret but had no interest in children. He suggested Daisy go live with her biological father. That was the endMargaret calmly packed his things and showed him the door.
Its alright, darling, well get by fine. We dont need anyone else.
Daisy didnt understand everything, but she knew one thing: her mum chose her. And thats what she remembered most. Maybe thats why, as Daisy grew up, the two had such a strong bond; Daisys mum was her world.
Daisy, time to go, or youll be late! Margaret gently adjusted her daughters veil and kissed her forehead. Be happy, my dear!
Daisy threw up her hands and laughed. Mum! Ill cry and Claire will kill meIve just spent an hour having my makeup done so no one can even tell!
With a tight embrace, Daisy whispered, Ill do my best
The wedding day rushed by in a blur. Soon after, Margaret found herself entering her now empty house, closing the door gently behind her before sitting alone on the hallway bench. That was it. Daisy was off, starting a life with her new husband in Margarets mums old flata place shed happily handed over to the young couple. When Daisy broached the subject of living with her husbands parents, Margaret said nothing, but once her future son-in-law had left, she handed Daisy the keys.
Dont be daft, love. Youll live on your ownjust the two of you.
But what about the tenants, Mum?
I already sorted ittheyre moving out before your wedding.
But thats your money, your security. Wed planned to rent while we saved
How much do I really need, pet? Ill manage. Im still working, in good health. And youenjoy your new home. Why rent when this is waiting for you?
Daisy twirled, clutching the keys in delight. Mum, thank you! My dream of a proper home just feels so much closer now.
A home?
Yes! Something big, light and airy, with room for everyone. Three kids rooms, at least! Daisy blushed and hugged her mum tightly. Too much?
Never, darling! As long as you and your children are healthy, thats all Ill ever wish for.
Im so glad you understand me
And Im glad your children will have a relatively young grandmother, Margaret said, laughing as she kissed Daisys head. A homes a home. Live how you wish, love!
She didnt tell Daisy about the conversation with her future in-laws the night before.
The traditional engagement was held, as expected, in Daisy’s family home. Margaret spent all day in the kitchenshe loved to cook but rarely had the chance these days. Daisy and her ate so little together. Serving up, she watched Denniss parents carefully. At first, they seemed friendly enough, but her hopes faded when his mum, Elizabeth, poked about with her fork and pursed her lips.
Odd Not what were used to
Margaret raised an eyebrow. The fish pieher mums old recipehad never failed to impress anyone. Nor had the roast beef, lovingly tended for hours. Denniss dad ate in silence, clearly pleased.
And Daisyshe doesnt cook either? Elizabeth slid her plate away. Well have to teach her. Still, house is big enough for everyone. Theyll live with us for a little; thats for the best. Shell soon learn how to look after Dennis. Only child, you see. Spoiled. Daisys your only too, isnt she?
Yes.
And you raised her alone? Without a father?
Thats how it turned out.
Well, a stable family example is important. How can a girl learn to behave properly without a man around? Daisy seems lovely, but I do worryhow will she learn to fit in?
Margaret stayed composed, though Daisy nudged her foot under the tablea silent let it go. Daisy had warned her that Dennis was quite different from his parents.
Hes a good man, Mum. Youll see. Try not to get upset, whatevers said, please. He finds them trying too.
Margaret began to understand. It was tempting to send them packing, but Daisy had always been wise and wouldve thought all this through before choosing Dennis.
After clearing up, Margaret lingered in the kitchen. She jumped when Elizabeth returned.
May I have a quick word, just us grown-ups?
Her husband, Simon, followed her in, quiet and awkward. Clearly, he wasnt keen on this but wouldnt challenge his wife.
Margaret No need for formality between us now. Im a mother, as you are. I need to be certain my only childs future is sound. Hes making a huge choice. I hope its his only, but life is unpredictable
Margaret let her talk. Shed learnt in her work as a practice manager that, if you simply listen, people often reveal more than they intended.
Dont get me wrongDaisy is lovely. But I have to ask a few things, and only you can answer.
Im listening, Margaret replied quietly, suppressing her urge to cut the conversation short.
I know you and Daisys father divorced ages ago. Do you know much about his family? Any health issues? Was he a drinker? Socially unreliable?
Nothing of the sort.
But more details, please. As a doctor, you know how important family history is. I want the best for Dennis. I can overlook the broken home, but I must know what my sons future children might inherit.
Margaret felt patience slip. She drew breath, preparing to give this overbearing woman a piece of her mind. But then Daisy appeared at the door, eyes wide, silent pleas to stay calm. She didnt know what was being said, but one look at Margaret let her know things were about to blow over.
Mum?
Yes, Daisy. Im almost done hereget out the old tea set, will you?
Margaret steadied herself, turning to Elizabeth. Daisys health and family background are excellent. I can show you whatever information youd like, but theres truly no concern. I wont ask you the same. I think the young ones can decide for themselves. Elizabeth, she added, stopping Denniss mum from replying, I understand your concerns, but lets hope they dont cause Dennis to keep making the fundamental choice you worry about.
They returned to the guests. Simon shot her a thankful glance. Margaret quietly made it clear to Elizabeth that the matter was closed.
They didnt meet again before the wedding. Daisy and Dennis paid for everything themselves.
Daisy and Dennis started building their own home two years later. They sold the old flat and bought a plot for their dream. Heavily pregnant, Daisy had become such a regular at the building site, the tradesmen called her boss and did as she said, laughing. The house wasnt finished in time, so after the birth Dennis brought her and the baby to Margarets houseeven if it did annoy Elizabeth.
Im sorry were in your way, Dennis said, laying the newbornlittle Sophiegently on Margarets bed, but Daisy, and I too, feel better here.
You did right, Dennis, Margaret soothed his nerves. You worried? Go on, unwrap her, its hot.
He hovered, nervous.
No need, shes yoursand youll do right by her. Instinct, Dennis, give it a go.
Margaret signalled Daisy to hang back and let Dennis try. He managed bath timeand the first walkbrilliantly. Elizabeth arrived next day, unimpressed.
Changing nappies and all thatits not a man’s job.
Nonsense, Margaret retorted, smiling at Dennis, cradling Sophie confidently.
Of course, she longed to take overas all grandmas do. You always think you know best, forgetting that once you were new to it too, scared of everything.
Sophie thrived. They finally moved into their home, and when Sophie was just over one, Daisy started thinking about a second child. But thats when trouble struck.
Mum, Sophie has a temperature. Margaret stiffened. Shed never heard Daisy sound so panicked.
Is it high?
Yeswont come down.
Ring the ambulance. Im on my way.
Margaret drove through the night, praying Sophie would be alright. But fate wasnt quite so kind.
Hospital, intensive care For two days, they waited after the doctors quietly grim words: Waitwere doing everything we can.
Daisy barely moved from the corridor outside intensive care. Margaret didnt try to drag her awayjust brought tea or sandwiches and insisted she eat.
Youll need your strength for Sophie when shes out of danger.
Dennis churned between job and ward. Margaret hugged him when he looked ready to break.
Stay strong. If you fall apart, Daisy wont cope.
Elizabeth turned up almost immediately.
How did this happen? Where did she get it? Is it hereditary or just bad luck?
Elizabeth, please, does it matter? For the first time, Margaret lost her composure.
But Elizabeth glanced at Daisy, who leant against the wall, lips moving silently, and at Dennis, who held her hand wordlessly. Then, eyeing the fierce, unusual look on Margarets face, she fell quiet. Sorry
Margaret nodded. Some things you just have to accept. Eventually, Sophie rallied and demanded to see her mum. As soon as Daisy could be with her, Margaret breathed out in relief. The worst was over.
A few days later Margaret visited. After playing with Sophie and nagging Daisy to eat, she prepared to leave but Daisy caught her sleeve.
Mum, hang on. Dennis is coming overwe need to talk.
When they explained, Margaret closed her eyes a momenther heart full.
Mum, will you help?
Of course! No need to even ask.
Daisy sighed with relief. With two kids, and Sophie needing so much, I couldnt do it without you.
Of course you couldjust look at your husband!
Dennis poked his unruly head out from under Sophies blanket as they played hide and seek.
So, you dont mind?
Move in? Of course I mindits not natural! But only for a while, until Sophies better. Think of me as a seasonal worker.
Mum!
What? I mean it! I will help while you really need it, but living under one roof with you all the timeno, thats not right.
Id be so happy if you did, though
Im always here for you, but you have your own family. Thats how it should be. Help is one thing; living together is quite another. End of.
Margaret hugged her granddaughter and headed for home.
No sooner had she started packing a bag than the phone rang.
Margaret, dont you think its odd? Why you, not me? Elizabeths voice was as direct as ever. You still have work, Im retiredand I know children better.
Elizabeth, I didnt choose; youll have to ask them. Ill help when asked.
Dennis wont even listen to me! I dont know what youve done, but its not righthis own mother overlooked!
Maybe you should ask him then?
Youre impossible! I think you should say noblame work.
Elizabeth, listen to yourself. Why should I? And, when did you last visit Sophie?
Well, youre always there. Cant even bring her a meal since youve done everything!
Theres your answer, then.
Margaret ended the call, lost in thought. Its easy to unsettle a fragile household. But putting things right again isnt always possible. Perhaps Elizabeth would never see that, but Margaret did. She decided to ring Dennis.
Dennis, we should talk.
Three Years Later
Gran, are you picking me up from dance today, or is Nanna Liz?
I am, love. Nanna Liz is taking Paul for a walkyour mummys off to work.
So, am I having lunch with you then?
Yes, you are.
Brilliant! Are you making those tasty buns again?
Did you enjoy them? Of course, I will. Margaret glanced at Sophie in the rear-view mirror, sitting snugly in her car seat.
Gran
Yes, lovely?
Are we going to the zoo together this weekend or with Nanna Liz?
All of us, and Grandpa too. He needs a day out as well.
And will you get me a balloon?
I promise. And an ice cream. And candyfloss.
Awesome! But Paul gets a balloon as well, right?
Absolutely, Margaret laughed.
Gran
Hm?
Can I tell you a secret? Top secret?
Of course!
Im going to have another brother or sister soon.
Margarets eyebrows shot up in surprise. Daisy had looked a bit more mysterious lately, but said nothing. Since Margaret had refused to move in, preferring her independence and a shared approach with both grandmothers, Daisy respected her choices but told Dennis any big news first now.
It wasnt always smooth, but between them, theyd made it work. Everyone had compromises to make; sometimes someone had to bite their tongue. The most important thing was Sophies health and the safety of the new baby. And through everything, Sophie and Paul gained two loving grandmothers and a wonderful granddad.
How do you know? Margaret turned the radio down.
Mum and Dad were talking last night. They thought I was asleep. Gran Can I wish for a sister?
Why do you ask?
Well, if its a brother, he might be sad I didnt wish for him.
Margaret smiled to herself. What a caring little soul.
Sophie, do you love Paul?
Loads!
Then youll love your new brother tooif its a boyand hell love you. Wont he?
He will!
So, lets wait and see what the doctor says, shall we? And you know something?
What?
I always wanted a brother growing uptwo, if I had my way.
Really?
Hand on heart.
Okay. Sophie shifted in her seat, arranging her favourite toysher bunny from Margaret, her bear from Elizabeth. Ill be excited for a brother too.
And you know what else? Margaret turned down Daisy and Denniss street. Its excitinga bit like a Christmas present. You never know whats inside until you open it.
Have you got me a Christmas present yet? Sophie peered mischievously at her Gran, who was unbuckling her seat.
For Christmas? Not yet. But your birthday presentIve got that. Want to know a secret?
Yes!
Nanna Liz has got you one too. But Im not telling you what.
Oh! Sophie pouted.
What are you sulking for? Your birthdays soonyoull find out then.
Alright! Sophie clutched her rabbit and scampered to the gate.
Margaret grabbed Sophies swimming bag and nodded at Elizabeth, approaching with Paul on her hip.
Hello, Gran!
And hello to you! Elizabeth smiled. Were off to the park.
And were off to dancejust need to get changed.
Margaret watched as Sophie ran to Elizabeth, chattering a mile a minute, and thought how both complicated and simple life could be. To love those close, to listen and really hear, to be necessaryand need others. That, shed learned, was what family is all about.
