Urgently Need a Husband
Mum, you really, really must find a new husband. As soon as possible. Its urgent!
Eleanor nearly dropped her mug of tea and a small brown patch bloomed on the edge of the white tablecloth. She quickly set the cup down, cleared her throat, and fixed her daughter with a searching look.
Explain yourself, Fiona, she said, keeping her voice steady. Whats brought this on?
The young girl shuffled from foot to foot, eyes cast down, her gaze intent on the flowery carpet. Fiona looked uneasy, but her resolve was clear.
You see, Mum Today I told Dad you had a boyfriend, she confessed, with a heavy sigh. He wouldnt stop asking! Hes always on at mehave you met someone, is there a gentleman in your life? All this time I said no, and then hed launch straight into a whole lecture about what a terrible mistake you made leaving him. How you clearly dont understand life at all if youd let someone so wonderful go.
She looked up at her mother, irritation and confusion flickering behind her blue eyes, a hint of anger there too.
And then he just keeps repeating youll come to your senses and beg him to take you back. That youll never find someone better. So I snapped a bit. I told him youd met someone.
Eleanor ran her hand through her auburn hair, her mind conjuring up those familiar echoes of her ex-husbands toneassured, condescending, and always turning every conversation into a monologue about his own perfection.
I can only imagine his reaction, she said with a wry smile. He still cant accept I left absolute perfection. At times I think Alan insists you visit on weekends just to have an audience for his speechescatch up on family gossip, give his injured pride a little polish.
Fiona collapsed onto the sofa, curled her legs beneath her, and absentmindedly ran her fingers across the soft tweed, searching for her next words.
I think so too, she replied, staring at the window. I have to listen for an hour and a half about how brilliant he is. The rest of the time he hardly careshe doesnt ask about my school or my friends or if I need anything.
She spoke the words with detached ease, as if reciting the weather: wake up, breakfast, school, homework A routine stripped of surprise, long since numb to disappointment.
She leaned back and let her gaze wander to the ceiling, replaying their last conversation. As usual, it began with Dads triumpha detailed account of his triumph at work, followed by grand plans for the future, the endless woes no one else could possibly understand, and the injustice of being underappreciated. Ninety minutes, Fiona quietly timed it, just to report to Mum.
When she finally tried to tell him about her maths competition at school, Dad only nodded distractedly and plunged right back into his own talesThats nice, but you know, at your age Id already And off hed go about how unforgettable his own school talents were.
She shrugged off the memory. Fiona had long since grown used to this. As far back as she could remember, Dads world revolved entirely around himself, while everyone else on the edge of his attentionpresent, but never quite his priority.
If Mum was tired, he matched her with woes from the office. If Fiona had a problem with her friends, hed launch into his own school storiesalways brighter, always more important. Other peoples worries passed him by, air to be waved aside.
Sometimes she still wondered how Mum had managed fifteen years of Alan. How did she stay so long beside a man so in love with his own legend? Perhaps it really was only for her sake, not wanting her daughter to grow up without a father. As a child, Fiona believed Dad would change, would one day look at them properly. But the years passed, nothing changed. Only after the divorce did Fiona see how peaceful life could be without his constant gravitational pull.
So why do I have to find a partner immediately? Eleanors voice came out sharper than intended. You made it upso what? Itll pass.
Its justDads face changed when I said it! Fiona clutched a cushion to her chest. First he went white, then red, and started shouting so loudly the neighbour heard! Ill admit it frightened me.
She paused, watching the memory flicker through her mindhis wild eyes, clenched fists, his voice nearly cracking from the strain. He looked set to explode.
He demanded I name the man, describe everything about him. She picked at the cushions edge. I said you told me not toespecially not to him. Honestly, I wouldnt be surprised if he rings you or turns up again soon.
Eleanor turned slowly, leaning against the window as she studied her daughter. She could imagine the storm: a full symphony of Alans drama. Marvelousthanks, my love, she thought wryly.
She sank down beside Fiona on the sofa and drew her into her arms. What else could she do? The words were out in the open; they couldnt be unsaid.
Why did you invent such a thing? she whispered, rocking the girl gently. We were so peaceful. Now well have to suffer his fits all over again. Im tempted to switch my phone off.
Fiona eased away, sitting up straight, her expression serious, earnest conviction gleaming in her eyes.
Because youre brilliant, Mum! Gorgeous, clever, loads of friends, and all the men clearly fancy youdont think I dont notice! But Dads always putting you down. Ive had enough.
Eleanor brushed a lock of Fionas hair behind her ear, her fingers moving gently through the fine tangle. Tenderness and bafflement mingled on her face.
I understand, darling, Eleanor said softly. Honestly, I thought you wouldnt want me to meet anyone newnot so soon after the divorce.
Saying it out loud felt hard. She feared, somewhere deep within, that a future romance would seem a betrayal to Fiona, or an attempt to swap one parent for another. Eleanor watched her daughters face, searching for any sign of resentment.
Nonsense! Fionas snort bristled with sincerity, and Eleanor found herself smiling. I just want you to be happy!
Fiona folded her arms, flashing a proud, grown-up smile at her mother. In that moment, she looked startlingly maturewise beyond her years, fierce in her defense of the people she loved.
Eleanor recognised it, and the worry in her own chest loosened, flowed away. Maybe she had let her fears about the past and future cloud what was here, now.
Youre a treasure, she murmured, hugging her close again. Thank you for looking after me.
Fiona wriggled under her mothers arm and snuggled in, both of them basking in a safe warmth as if, against the world, their little family was only getting stronger.
***************************
Eleanor sat at her desk in the office, staring blankly at the monthly reports. The numbers blurred, the words slipped away, and a heavy, pounding headache bloomed behind her eyes. She rubbed her forehead in slow, mechanical motions, circling the temples with her fingers, though it barely helped.
Eventually, she summoned the courage to ask her colleague Margaret to run to the high street chemist, barely a minute from the building. Soon after, Eleanor gulped down two tablets with chilled water and tried again to focus. No use. Every soundthe chattering keys, the air-con, laughter and voices drifting through the corridorstabbed at her throbbing head.
That was when the security guard, Ted, peered around the door. His voice was polite, but his eyes were wary.
Mrs. Davis, theres a visitor waitingyour ex-husband, he said quietly. Would you like to come down, or should we ask him to leave?
Eleanor froze. Frustration surged, tangling with exhaustion. She took a long breath, determined to keep it together.
Ill come, she said, getting up stiffly.
Mentally, she cursed her luck. A miserable days work, a headache, and Alan descending on the office unannouncedwhy not just phone? Why choose her workplace, with half of London milling around? Was he really about to stage a scene here?
She walked slowly, fighting every urge to hurry since each movement pressed her headache harder. The corridors were bustling: people dashing for meetings, a gaggle chuckling by the coffee machine, the project team gathered round the whiteboard. Tension squeezed her shoulders as she passed.
She spotted Alan right away in the reception: marching to and fro, occasionally darting towards the front desk to let off a little steam at the security staff. His gestures were wild, voice growing sharp, while the guards stood tall, visibly holding back the patience required of their job.
What do you want? Eleanor demanded, striding up abruptly. Her voice was level, her insides bristling with irritation. What sort of performance is this? Are you looking for a chat with the police? I could arrange that for you.
Alan spun around at the sound of her voice. His cheeks were red, his eyes fever brightanger or panic, who knew? He darted at her, jabbing a finger like hed uncovered a grand crime.
You! he roared. Fiona told mesix months since the divorce and youve already replaced me?
His tone veered between disbelief, hurt, and fiery jealousy. It was clear hed hoped Fiona was only winding him up. Now, looking at Eleanors calm composure, the truth was beginning to dawn.
Eleanor arched a brow, tilting her head in easy amusement, but her eyes sparkled cold.
Was I meant to keep faith with you forever? she drawled. Were divorced, Alan. Besides, you never made loyalty your strong suitdont start preaching to me now.
For a brief moment, Alans face slackened. His outstretched hand dropped heavily, and confusion flitted through his eyes. Hed not expected such cool clarity.
People came and wentstaff, visitors, courierssome glanced over curiously, but for Alan and Eleanor, the world shrank to a charged pocket of old slights, buried words, and a reality Alan couldnt absorb.
You you just Alan stammered, but Eleanor interrupted him.
Lets not make a public scene, Alan. Her voice softened, but the steel remained. If you have something to discuss, we can do so quietly, but not here, not like this.
A scene? Oh, Ill show you a scene! Alan bellowed, his shout echoing across the reception as his face went blotchy, neck cords standing taut. He paced in panic, wrestling for control.
I wont have my daughter living with some stranger under my roof! Ill take her from you! Youll never see her again, you
His tirade sounded unhinged, but Eleanor merely lifted an eyebrow, calm bordering on disdain. Steal Fiona? Shed very much like to see him try. There wasnt a judge in the country whod side with him.
Have you finished? What a performance, she said dryly. You should join the circus.
Whats going on here?
Alan froze. A new voice had cut through the tension. Standing in the doorway was a man in a sharply tailored midnight suit. His posture was relaxed but assured, his gaze direct and inscrutable. The security staff visibly straightened at the sight; he was clearly not to be trifled with.
Stay out of this, Alan snapped, tossing a glare his way, cheeks still pulsing with colour. None of your business.
The stranger didnt reply straight away. He strolled over until he was close by, just far enough to command the territory. A smirk played around his lips, further setting Alan on edge.
A private matter is private in private, the man stated quietly. But a public tantrum is everyones affair.
Eleanor watched, the air between everyone sharpening to raw electricity. She hadnt expected Michael Livingston, the managing director, but was almost grateful hed stepped in; it checked Alans momentum.
Alan moved toward Michael, lips poised to spit out an insult, but Michael merely straightened, unrattled, practiced in the art of facing men far more ferocious.
And who are you to boss me about? Alan grit through his teeth, struggling to maintain control. This has nothing to do with you!
Michael took a few imperious steps to Eleanors side andcompletely unhurried, almost companionablewrapped an arm around her waist. The gesture was clear: no playing coy.
Who am I? he replied, voice as steady as a winter river. Im the man making Eleanor smile again. You shout at my partner, and thats not something Ill allow. Your only police business today is keeping your voice down. Cause trouble for Fiona, and believe me, Ill have it sorted before you can say solicitor. Understood?
Alan stopped dead. The fuming red faded, replaced by a pale bewilderment. He stared at Michael, at Eleanor, and realised his grip on the situation had slipped entirely.
He stood, fists flexing at his sides, grappling for a biting retort that never camewhether cowed by Michaels assurance or the sudden realisation that this was a new order, and old sleight-of-hand wouldnt fly.
He muttered something indistinct, spun on his heel, and stalked stiffly away, pausing only to spit, Dont expect a penny in child support!
I dont even need it, Eleanor called after him, almost laughing, her voice light and relieved. At least Fiona wont have to do the weekend pilgrimage anymore.
Only then did she register Michaels arm still firmly about her. The contactso simple yet so full of meaningmade her blush and retreat just a tad, attempting nonchalance.
With a slightly bashful smile, she turned to her unlikely saviour.
Thank you, Mr. Livingston. Youve no idea how much it means.
She meant every word, a swelling gratitude not only for his intervention, but the certainty and dignity with which he offered it.
Michaels lips curled, his eyes softening for an instant.
Shall we talk about it over lunch? he asked, extending a hand as an invitation.
For just a moment, Eleanor paused. Was it too soon? Would it seem frivolous? But the thought vanished. Hed been respectful, gentleand she wanted to know more. Who was he really? Why had he stepped in so carelessly brave? What lay beneath that calm confidence?
Of course, she replied, laying her hand in his.
His grip was firm, gentle but inescapable, and Eleanor felt the anxious tide that had risen since Alans appearance begin to recede, replaced by something like nervous anticipation.
Later, nestled by the window of a small restaurant round the corner, the soft glow of the lamps and the gentle hum of Bach over the speakers transformed everything, and conversation flowed.
Little by little, Michael revealed his feelings, quietly and without pretence. He found her serious, impressive, and wanted nothing more than to offer kindness, not pressure.
I was always tempted to say something, he admitted, stirring his tea. But you had too much to managethis cant have been easy. I never wanted to intrude.
Eleanor listened, realising his interest was neither superior nor artificialjust honest, gentle admiration.
And then today, when I saw what he was doing Michael frowned. I just couldnt let it stand.
She couldnt help but smile. How little shed understood the looks he sometimes gave herhow easily shed mistaken compassion for patronising distance. He was charming, yes, but never for show. And standing beside him, everything felt inexplicably easier.
***************************
Three months after that surreal scene in the office, Eleanor and Michael were married in the sunlit gardens of Hampstead. The wedding was exactly what Eleanor had always dreamedflowers tumbling everywhere, laughter and happy tears in abundance.
Fiona was in her element, checking every detail from veil to shoes, making sure everything was perfect for her mother. When the vows were made and the golden rings exchanged, she hugged the newlyweds tight.
Im so happy for you both, she whispered, her eyes bright with genuine joy.
But she didnt hesitate to set her boundary, days later, once the confetti settled.
I like you very much, Michael, she confided one cosy evening as they sat together. And Im glad Mum isnt alone. But well, as for calling you Dadmy dads still my dad, however impossible he can be.
Michael nodded, unbothered. Thats completely right, Fiona. As long as were all together, Im content.
Alan received his invitation to the weddingmore as a formality than a true offer. Eleanor deliberated, ultimately deciding he should know life moved on, utterly without him. The card was simply that: a date, a time, an address.
Unsurprisingly, Alan did not attend. The prospect only deepened his resentmentso instead, he vented to mutual friends, dialing one number after another.
She actually invited me to her wedding! he exclaimed before anyone could answer. After everything Ive done for her! Isnt it revolting?
Friends listened, bemused or evasive. A few offered tepid sympathy, some muttered to each their own, but most just let the conversation drift. The more Alan repeated his diatribe, the clearer it became that no one was joining his indignation.
Eventually he changed tackSix months! How can someone find real love so quickly? Shes running away, trying to erase me. She never gave me a real chance to put things right. If only shed let me
But the words fizzled; even he seemed weary of the story. Sometimes he shifted to complaints about Eleanors ingratitude, but when pressedwhat did she owe him?no one could answer, not even Alan.
After many fruitless calls, Alan grew silent. He sulked in his tiny flat, staring at Eleanors forgotten hairpin, the old family album, a faded little dress now too small for Fionalife went on, with or without him. Only he couldnt find his place in it.
Alan faded from the daily landscape, while for Eleanor, Michael, and Fiona, life took on a quiet rhythm of dinners, walks in the park, cheerful debates about what to watch. They strolled through dreams of their own making, the world sometimes surreal and shifting, but the warmth between them as certain as the sunrise spilling through the English rain.
