A Test by Family
Rebecca hadnt known such happiness for years. For so long, every day had blended bleakly into the next, with only solitude for company. But then she met Simon a man who seemed to turn her world upside down, who was everything she hadnt found in anyone else. He was gentle, kind, thoughtful
To her, Simon was flawless. He knew how to be her strength when things were hard, was as comfortable speaking about philosophy as he was about what theyd watch on telly that evening. He didnt lose his temper over little things, never made scenes, and didnt try to control or press his beliefs upon her. After so many years, Rebecca felt shed finally found the one shed been waiting for.
Yet, there was one detail her neighbours couldnt ignore: Simon was eight years younger than Rebecca. But to her, that was nothing. Age, she thought, was just a number; true closeness was built on mutual warmth and respect, on the small daily tendernesses they offered each other.
That didnt stop the women of Bridge Close, though the older ones, especially. Shed feel their scornful glances trailing behind as she walked through the communal garden with Simon. Theyd mumble, shake their heads, and sometimes were bold enough to voice their suspicions.
Careful there, love, Mrs Jenkins would mutter, narrowing her eyes, bloke like that, bit too young, you dont worry hell take a shine to your Lucy? Shes a pretty thing these days, figure on her and all
Rebecca could only sigh, attempting to keep her peace. She knew their words were born of boredom and old habits, not insight.
Dont be ridiculous, shed reply, briskly. Hes a decent man with a good heart, and he cares for me. Thats all there is to it.
Her tone carried a certainty no gossip could sway. She trusted Simon, trusted what they had. All that mattered was how they felt, not whispers behind net curtains.
Simon, for his part, kept a mask of unbothered calm in public, arching an eyebrow in the direction of the latest busybody as if to say, Not worth my time. But once the flat door closed behind them, his cool was quick to evaporate. Hed pace the living room, raking a tense hand through his hair, anger simmering.
Have you ever heard anything like it?! he blurted. As if were some episode of EastEnders! Its not right, all this prying, making up stories. Havent they anything better to do?
Rebecca would rest her hand gently on his arm, soothing. Let them natter, Simon. Its just what they do. Theyve had more reality TV than sense. Give it time theyll see you as you are, or move on to the next bit of gossip.
But while Rebecca and Simon could put on a stoic front, things werent so simple for Lucy. For years shed been the focus of Rebeccas every evening endless cups of tea at the kitchen table, laughter and advice. Now, much of her mothers attention was pulled towards this new man. And the worst part? Simon wasnt shy to comment on Lucys behaviour.
One night, when Simon remarked yet again that she ought not to be wandering the streets so late, Lucy snapped. Flinging open the living room door, she stormed in, arms flailing and her voice thick with hurt.
Mum! Why do we need him? It was fine before, just you and me! No one telling us whats what. Now hes here and suddenly hes boss! she cried, the frustration spilling over.
Rebecca leaned back into the settee, willing herself to remain calm, looking at her daughter with steady eyes.
Simon was just being reasonable, love. Youre fifteen its not safe out there at night. Have you even watched the news lately? Terrible things can happen.
But Mum, Im always out with my mates! Lucy protested, stomping her foot.
And what help are your mates if a grown man corners you? Rebecca pressed.
Lucy stood, red-faced and trembling with rage, before spinning on her heel and hurling over her shoulder, Ive had enough. Im going to my room. Dont bother with dinner for me.
The doors slam echoed through the flat, leaving Rebecca in weighted silence, wondering where things had gone so wrong. Shed only wanted to love, to be wanted after so many lonely years. Was that really a crime?
Maybe Lucy just couldnt see it that all she wished for was a bit of affection, for someone else to hold her tight and share the weight of the days.
The memory of those evenings, chatting away on the kitchen floor, now felt distant. Lucy kept more and more to herself, answering in short bursts, recoiling into her bedroom.
Rebecca let out a shaky breath, tears pricking her eyes, wishing she could find the words not an explanation, but something to reassure Lucy that, even amid these changes, her mothers love hadnt shifted, not really. She just didnt know how to pierce the thickening ice between them. All she could do was hold out hope that, with time, Lucy might see the truth: that Simon only wanted to care for them both
*****
The next morning dawned as dull and grey as only a London morning in April could. Rebecca was barely awake when Lucy burst into her room, ruffled and wild-eyed.
He says I cant go to Georginas cottage for the weekend! Lucy declared, voice trembling with outrage. You hear that, Mum? Simon doesnt have the right to tell me what I can and cant do!
Simon appeared in the doorway, arms folded an immovable presence. He stayed silent, choosing not to inflame the row.
Rebecca sat up, rubbing her eyes, steeling herself. The sleepiness evaporated instantly.
Hes only being sensible, she replied, trying to keep her tone measured. And I wouldnt let you go either. Georginas parties are notorious do you think Ill let you tag along with that lot?
Im not a child! Im fifteen! I can decide who my friends are and where I go! Lucy shot back, foot stamping in defiance.
Rebecca stood slowly, pulling her robe tighter, and fixed Lucy with a hard stare.
Finish your schooling, get a job, earn your own money, then you can make your own rules. Until then, you live under my roof you follow my rules.
Lucy froze, mouth agape, lips quivering.
Your rules? she spat, her voice bitter. It’s all about what makes you happy now, isnt it? As long as Simons content, nothing else matters!
Rebecca fought to keep her tone steady, wounded but resolute.
Im not punishing you, Lucy, Im worried. I want you safe. Thats what parents do.
I want to live my life! Lucy interrupted. But you dont care. You just care about him.
Simon made to speak, but Rebecca shot him a look dont.
Lucy, darling, listen Rebecca tried, her voice gentle, but Lucy cut her off, tears welling in her angry gaze.
Ill go anyway! Lucy declared, wrenching open her bedroom door and slamming it so hard the walls shook.
Rebecca slumped onto a chair, exhaustion flooding her body. Simon crossed the room and laid a hand on her shoulder.
Should I talk to her? he asked quietly.
Rebecca shook her head. She wont listen now. Give her space. Well talk when its calmer.
She stared through the window, watching the clouds start to break and dawns first weak sunlight slip through. Maybe, just maybe, today would bring some peace to their troubled home.
Lucys door rattled on its hinges as she threw herself on her bed, pressing her face into the pillow and holding herself stiff. She lay like that for hours hunger gnawing, pride keeping her rooted. No way would she show them her resolve was crumbling.
By evening, her anger had faded into an aching emptiness. She glanced in the mirror at her swollen tear-stained face, drew in a shaky breath, and finally crept into the kitchen. Silently, she constructed a meagre sandwich, humming softly to herself as she chewed.
Rebecca appeared in the doorway, watching Lucy. She tried for casual: You seem chipper now. Planning on apologising for this mornings display?
Lucy shrugged, slicing cheese onto her bread. For what? I havent done anything.
Rebecca pressed her lips together, gripping the counter. You sure about that? No apology, no privilege. Youre in tonight; Simon and I are going out.”
Lucy gave a careless shrug. Fine. Im not bothered. Enjoy yourself, while you can.
Rebecca paused in the doorway, uncertain. Did you say something?
No, Lucy replied coolly, not meeting her mothers gaze.
Rebecca left, heart heavy with uncertainty, never seeing Lucy watch her fade down the corridor, eyes calculating. Her mind was set: soon, Simon would be out of their lives.
*****
The next afternoon at the Croydon office, Rebecca was flicking through contracts when her mobile buzzed in her blazer pocket. Simon rarely called during work, knowing her bosss temper.
She answered immediately. Simon? Is everything all right?
A womans voice replied, clipped and official. Im a nurse at St Georges Hospital. Weve just admitted a gentleman, the owner of this phone. Would you be able to come in?
Rebeccas world jerked to a sudden, frozen stop. For a moment, she could barely breathe.
Yes Ill come now. Not waiting for more, she dashed from her desk, ignoring the startled looks as she ran through the office. One frantic thought pounded in her chest: Just let him be all right.
Half an hour later, she was led to Simons bedside. His face was grazed and bruised, lip bloodied but he was awake, and, seeing her, forced a pained smile.
Simon! What happened? Who did this? she gasped, grasping his hand.
He winced. Im not even sure Some man, shouting about Lucy. Ranting and raving I couldnt make sense of it.
Red-hot rage surged in Rebeccas veins, and she instantly understood: David. Her ex-husband, the man shed spent years keeping at a distance.
Ill sort this, she said fiercely, squeezing Simons hand. Ill find out right now.
Simon sat up sharply, pain flashing across his face.
Not by yourself! Call your brother, Rebecca dont go alone. Please. It might not be safe.
Seeing his worry, Rebecca nodded, deeply moved by his concern bruised and battered as he was, still thinking more of her than himself.
All right. Just rest. Ill call Mark. She dialled her brother, voice taut as steel, and returned to Simon, promising, Well get through this. Both of us.
*****
She arrived at Davids flat with a storm behind her eyes. He stood in the hallway, hands shoved deep into his pockets, wearing that challenging smirk.
Looking for trouble? Rebecca shot out, grilling him with her gaze. Because youve found it.
David reddened instantly, anger rising. What were you thinking? Bringing that boy into Lucys life? You ever once think of her?!
Rebecca didnt flinch. Ive been the one thinking for fifteen years, David. You left us when she was a toddler but now youve got the nerve to criticise me?
He slammed a fist against the wall, making the framed photographs rattle on the shelf.
Hes after Lucy! David bellowed. Say the word and Ill finish him off!
Rebeccas tone turned icy. When would he have the time? Hes home later than me and our weekends line up. Lucy just doesnt like him and made up stories.
My daughter doesnt lie! David barked, stepping up close. I could take her from you. Shed live with me.
Rebecca smiled coldly. With what money, David? You couldnt give her what shes used to. Shed leave inside a week.
His expression flickered, pride wounded. Thats where youre wrong. Shes asked to come, said she doesnt feel safe with him there.
That jabbed through Rebeccas composure, but she fought to keep her voice level.
Fine. Let her. Im certain shell change her mind soon enough.
Shes never coming back, David insisted, though doubt shadowed his eyes.
Rebecca walked to the window, looking out at the children playing on the communal green below. Did David even realise what he was doing, or did he just want revenge? But Lucy was flesh and blood, not a pawn in their battles.
Shes not a prize, Rebecca said quietly, back still turned. Do what you like, but try, just once, to put her before your ego.
David said nothing, unable for once to argue.
*****
Simon emerged from hospital into London drizzle, icy wind raising goosebumps along his arms. Rebecca was waiting, wrapped in her long blue coat, tears threatening as she saw him bracing himself against the hurt.
Were free at last, Simon tried to joke, squeezing her hand. Let’s just go home.
He never spoke a harsh word about David, not even when pressured by friends to go to the police.
If someone said a man was hanging around my daughter, Id react the same, Simon answered quietly. He was protecting his girl.
He bore no grudge, only wished to move on.
Two days later, Lucy appeared unexpectedly. She edged in, head down, gripping a carrier bag of apples and grapes clumsy but honest.
Ive come to talk, she said, barely above a whisper.
Simon and Rebecca exchanged a glance; he nodded for Rebecca to continue.
Mum, it was all me, Lucy blurted, guilt etched deep in her features. I lied, to get him to leave. I didnt think itd go so far. I just I wanted things how they used to be. When he got hurt, I was so scared and so ashamed.
Simon stepped closer, slow, careful.
I dont blame you, Lucy. You panicked. I understand. Admitting it takes courage.
Lucys tears finally spilled. I just want you to know if youre happy with him, then thats good enough for me. She turned to her mother, falling into her arms.
Well work it out, Rebecca whispered. Were family. That means everything.
Later, Lucy made a decision. Im going to stay with Dad for a while. He needs time with me. And you deserve to be happy, Mum really happy.
Rebecca laced her fingers through Lucys, tears falling freely now. Youre so, so brave.
Lucy managed a soggy smile. Turns out your happiness is my happiness too. And well find our way, all three of us.
That night, the flat was still at last, the quiet peaceful and full of hope for the first time in a long time a promise that, no matter how stormy things got, healing and new beginnings would be there, waiting on the horizon.
