Three Broken Fates
Well, well, lets see what weve got here! Now this looks promising.
It all began with a typical Saturday tidy-up. Heather was rummaging through old belongings in the loft, while Susan prepared lunch in the kitchen. Amidst the dusty boxes, Heather stumbled upon a battered photo album shed never seen before. Her curiosity piqued, she settled into an armchair and began leafing through the pages.
At first there were cheerful snapshots: a young Susan laughing with friends by a village green fountain, a jolly picnic in the countryside, Susan grinning in a meadow of wildflowers. Then another face began to appear a tall, dark-haired man. In photo after photo, Susan and her companion looked happy, arms around each other, gazing with obvious affection. Heather scrutinised the pictures: here they were at a cosy café, there walking along the riverbank, laughing and holding hands. How intriguing! Who was this distinguished gentleman, and why was he looking at Mum like she was the only person in the world?
Unable to resist, Heather popped down to the kitchen. Susan was just pulling a cake from the oven, and the warm aroma of vanilla filled the house.
Mum, Heather asked, clutching the album in her hands. Whos this man in the pictures? I dont think Ive ever seen him.
Susan turned, and for the briefest moment Heather noticed her hands falter on the oven mitts. But the pause was fleeting a calm smile quickly settled on Susans face as she set the tin down on the counter.
Oh, thats Julian, she said, with a breezy tone Heather could tell was a cover. We dated quite some time ago before I met your father.
Why have I never heard about him? Heather pressed, flicking through the pages. You two look so happy. What happened? Why did you split up?
Susan wiped her hands on her apron and hesitated. She wandered over to the window, watching the neighbours children play in the lane. It was clearly not a comfortable subject, and Heather realised perhaps shed pushed too far but she couldnt back down now. She simply had to know.
It was complicated, love, Susan finally turned from the window, facing Heather with a weary honesty. We loved one another, but it simply wasnt meant to be. And that was my fault. All of it. Im the reason we parted.
Heather took a seat at the kitchen table, unable to look away from her mother. She saw the pain those photographs clearly brought her and was already regretting her curiosity. But the urge to know more was overwhelming.
Tell me everything, she pleaded softly. Please, Mum. Ive sensed all my life that things were tense between you and Dad. You never really seemed close. You put up with him for years but why? I mean, hes my dad, and I accept that, but as a person, hes well, he isnt easy. Jealous and cold, never really caring about anyones feelings. Somehow I doubt he was ever different. So why him, and not Julian?
Susan stilled, her hand trembling slightly over her tea. She set the mug down gently, as if it might shatter, and lowered her eyes. After a moment, she drew a slow, steadying breath.
Thats not an easy question, darling, she said bitterly. I didnt love your father, not even a little. The truth is, I nearly hated him.
Heather flinched at that. Shed guessed, but hearing it so plainly from her mothers lips still hurt.
I dont understand! she burst out, her voice rising. Did someone force you? Did your parents insist?
Susan looked up then, a fleeting, rueful smile passing her lips.
No, just the opposite they were dead set against it, she replied softly. Mum couldnt understand why I was so quick to marry someone Id never shown interest in before. She tried to put the brakes on. Especially since Julian was still about then and he was quite the catch, you know.
She traced the rim of her mug, her expression pensive. It was clear that revisiting these memories was difficult, but something perhaps the photographs, perhaps simply the moment made her willing to talk at last.
You see, darling, Ive always had this stubborn streak, she admitted, her voice low. I cant stand being pushed about. The second someone lays down the law, Ill do the opposite even if it hurts me. My parents knew, so theyd give me options, never ultimatums. But the man I loved never truly grasped that or didnt wish to.
Susan trailed off, watching as the first flakes of snow drifted lazily past the kitchen window. The memory of her mistake still tormented her. If only shed taken a moment to cool off If only. But back then, she was hell-bent on proving nobody had the right to run her life and ended up paying the price with her own happiness.
One decision, and three lives were thrown off course: her own, Julians, and her eventual husbands. The marriage had been doomed from the start anyone could see it. She understood it even in the moment, but her own contrariness had got the better of her.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Susan was perched at the kitchen table, chin in palm, her gaze locked on Julian. He moved around the kitchen with an effortless grace, like a top chef in one of Londons best restaurants. His knife flashed, vegetables diced into neat cubes, and the tempting smells drifting from the stove seemed to lift the very mood of the house.
Several times, Susan wanted to get up and help years of habit telling her the kitchen was her domain. But each time she so much as opened her mouth, Julian stopped her gently but firmly: Stay put. This is my castle. Just sit back and enjoy it.
So Susan let herself relax, watching his easy confidence. In their world, the kitchen truly belonged to him Julian didnt just cook, he created, pouring a bit of himself into every movement.
Weve a family restaurant, Julian laughed, seeing Susans astonishment. There was no avoiding learning to cook when your mums an absolute wizard in the kitchen! I practically grew up in there myself. And I was a quick learner, not to boast! Just wait youll be coming back for seconds after this.
His eyes sparkled, and Susan couldnt help but feel warm inside, the whole scene positively humming with comfort and possibility.
Not half an hour later, Susan was staring at an empty plate, resisting the urge to lick it clean. The food was nothing short of miraculous rich, vibrant, every flavour distinct, but all coming together as something wholly new.
She sank back in her chair, exhaled happily, and looked at Julian in wonder. That was out of this world, she managed, voice trembling with delight. Ive never tasted anything like it. How do you make magic from the most ordinary things?
Julian beamed, clearly proud. He sat across from her, grinning at her empty plate.
Its about loving what you do, and a bit of imagination, he shrugged. And good ingredients, of course. But honestly, if you think thats good, wait until I take you to our restaurant. Thats where the real kitchen magic happens!
Susan laughed, radiant. She reached for her mug of coffee, savouring the rich aroma, the conversation getting even cosier.
Ill hold you to that! she grinned. Marvelous! Are you planning to take over from your mum then? Carry on the family business?
Julian thought for a moment, then shook his head with quiet certainty. No, Ive got even bigger plans. Were opening a new spot near London, out in one of the up-and-coming suburbs. The premises are sorted, refits underway, and Ill be running it. I promise you, its going to be a sensation!
He spoke with such excitement that Susan found herself swept along by his vision: the grand dining room, the panoramic windows, happy guests, and an air of celebration. But even as she listened, a little thread of worry crept in.
So youre leaving then? she asked, her voice wavering slightly. She fiddled with the gold ring Julian had given her when they got engaged, the metal cool against her skin but offering no reassurance. And what about me? Are you just planning on leaving me behind?
Julian paused, surprised. How could she even think that? He loved her more than anything and would do anything for her! In fact, this entire plan was for her to give her a secure and happy life.
What makes you say that? he protested. Of course I want you to come with me! Ive already sorted a flat for us a lovely place in a great neighbourhood. Well get married there, by the way the park nearby is breathtaking. As for uni, dont worry Ill help you transfer, its even better than here!
He spoke quickly, keen to assure her that everything was arranged with her happiness in mind. He thought this would thrill her! An opportunity like this comes once in a lifetime, and missing out would be daft.
Susan listened in silence, but inside she was in turmoil. She gripped the corner of the tablecloth, struggling to steady herself. Rationally, she knew it was a brilliant chance a move to a bigger city, a respected university, a new future. All of that sounded perfect, but something kept her from simply saying yes.
So youve already decided? she said slowly, each word weighed heavily. My opinion doesnt come into it? Just drop everything family, friends, my whole life and run after you?
She fell silent, staring through the window. The clouds drifted by, her mind awash with images of farewells and new beginnings.
Julian finally found his voice. He leaned forward, hands on the table, meeting her gaze.
Susan, I didnt mean to go over your head! I just wanted to share my plans, let you see we have a future. I honestly thought youd be pleased.
He looked bewildered he meant it as a happy surprise, a wonderful chance for both of them. It was hard for him to understand why she was upset.
Well, Im not pleased! Susan fired back, her anger simmering. You just took over and made the decision for me! Am I supposed to be some silent little wife, just doing whatever you say?
Sue, what are you on about? Julian said, his patience slipping. I thought youd be excited! Who wouldnt want to move to a fabulous suburb by the city? Youd love it! Its like a dream.
He tried to show her, picturing tree-lined streets, city excitement, and a home shared together. He could see it all so clearly baffled she couldnt see it too.
But Susan was beyond reasoning. What mattered now wasnt the place it was the principle. Her life, her choice. She shot to her feet, jostling the table. Coffee tipped over, pooling across the pristine cloth.
It doesnt matter if its wonderful or not! You made the choice for me! she cried. I wont have it! Ill make my own decisions, thank you very much! No one tells me where to live or what to do!
Her voice trembled with indignation. This was about her right to be heard, not just about geography.
Sue Julian tried to reach for her, but she shook him off. She was on the verge of tears now, unwilling to listen further.
Ive said all I need to, she snapped, her tone resolute despite the turmoil inside.
With a swift twist, she removed the gold engagement ring and held it in her palm for a heartbeat before hurling it against the wall. It struck the plaster with a sharp clang, bouncing to the floor with a forlorn rattle.
Back home, settled into her favourite armchair by the window, Susan finally let the tension drain from her body. Several deep breaths later, she realised shed made a colossal mistake. Her heart knew Julian hadnt meant to hurt her; everything hed done was out of love and hope for a future together. Why had she made such a scene?
But the moment she replayed the argument in her mind, the same old resentment flared being told what to do, her voice ignored If he could do it now, whos to say how it would be down the line? No better to face heartbreak now than lose her freedom for good. She convinced herself that, in time, the pain would fade, and her independence would be worth it.
Months passed, and Susan, still dealing with the fallout, chanced upon Mark. Hed always fancied her, quietly, with no drama or fuss. When he heard about her break-up with Julian, his interest sharpened. There was a subtle rivalry Mark relished being the underdog whod bested the golden boy Julian. Susan, lonely and vulnerable, saw in Marks proposal a chance to start afresh and prove she didnt need Julian to be happy.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
So thats how I ended up marrying the first man who came along, Susan finished, staring into the distance. Your dad gave no thought to our life together back then, she added, her voice heavy. Within a year, the cracks showed. Behind all the good-natured chit-chat he was dreadfully stubborn and uncompromising. Seven years later, we were divorced we just couldnt go on.
Heather listened quietly, her sympathy evident, but her curiosity undimmed.
Why do you say your mistake ruined three lives? she asked gently. Did Julian never get over you?
I honestly dont know, Susan replied softly. But I saw the pain in him. We both suffered. And Mark Well, he thought marriage would fix things, that itd prove something, but it just left him disappointed. Three people, each losing what might have been their happiness.
Susan weighed each word, not bitter now, but speaking with the steady acceptance of someone whos made peace with the past.
Julian moved away and became quite successful, she went on, watching as dusk crept over the garden outside. Hes got a chain of restaurants now, really respected in the business. But hes changed he used to be lively and warm, now hes closed-off, driven. That may help his career, but Im not so sure it does him any good in life.
She paused, remembering the scattered encounters shed had with Julian since. She pictured the man hed become tall, commanding, unsmiling, his eyes cold so different from the cheerful boy shed once loved.
He married twice, Susan continued, but neither marriage lasted more than a year. All his affection seems reserved for his son hes patient, gentle, even tender with the boy. But with women it never quite works out.
She hesitated, then added, barely looking at Heather, Both his wives were very like me same build, same hair, same manner. His friend once told me Julians never stopped loving me. But its too late I cant meddle in his life after all this time.
Heather stayed silent, but her mind whirred with unspoken thoughts. Everything could have turned out differently, so much happier. Her mother was strong, bright, capable of real depth. Surely she and Julian couldve found happiness and shared it, too?
But she knew Susan would never make the first move now. That stubbornness the same trait that drove them apart years ago still stopped her admitting fault to anyone else. Even if Susan realised shed made a terrible choice all those years back, shed never confess it to Julian. Not for want of trying, but because she simply wasnt made to retreat. For her, that would be weakness, and shed never allow it.
Susan stretched, as though shaking off old sorrows, and gave Heather a faint smile.
You know, she said, her mood brightening a touch, I cant really say I regret it all. Yes, it hurt, and things havent gone as dreamt. But Ive lived my life. And I have you thats what counts.
Outside, night had fully fallen. The little house glowed with its warm, inviting light the very picture of home for Heather. She stood, wrapped her mother in a careful embrace, and Susan, surprised at first, hugged her right back.
In that hush, both understood: the past was just that past. Their future was theirs to build, and they would build it together.
