You’re Still the Best The wedding bells rang out in the village as Daisy and Graham tied the knot. A country wedding is always a riot, and long after the party, folks who love some fun keep the celebration going—be it down some quiet lane or just on a bench outside someone’s house. Any excuse will do. Daisy and Graham decided to set up their own home at his gran’s house, separate from their parents. Graham drove a Transit van for work, hauling goods from the city to the village’s two little shops. Their courtship was brief, just a couple of months. Graham was sure this modest, cheerful girl would make a caring wife. “Daisy, let’s get married,” he said during one of their evening walks. “So soon?” she replied. “What’s the point in waiting? We’ve known each other since school—even if I finished two years ahead of you. So… what do you say?” “I say yes!” Daisy answered, glowing with happiness. Her mum was stunned when Daisy shared Graham’s proposal. “Oh, love, Graham is moving rather quick—are you sure it’s love? Is he the right one for you?” “He’s lovely, Mum. I really do like him.” “Well, sweetheart… just make sure you don’t regret your choice. A husband is meant to be your rock.” Recently, the whole village noticed Mike had started drinking more than usual. He’d always been a solid young man, though shy and reserved. Now he’d fallen in with a crowd whose main pastime was lounging and drinking all day. “Tessa, have you seen what’s happening with your Mike?” folks would say. “He’s such a good lad, works as a combine driver, and now look at him—he’ll lose his job for sure, the way he’s going.” For months, Mike was barely sober. Tessa worried, tried to reason, even pleaded—but nothing seemed to get through to her son. The harvest season came around and Mike missed work—he simply couldn’t make it. He was sacked, despite once being the most reliable and expert combine operator around. “What’s gone wrong with Mike?” asked Granny Edith when she bumped into Tessa. “Saw him drunk again the other day… such a shame—he used to be such a good lad.” Tessa herself didn’t understand what had changed. She walked inside to find Mike sprawled on the sofa, muttering under his breath. She leaned in to hear. “Daisy… Daisy, why’d you… why’d you have to marry him… why, why… And I love you…” “Oh my days—is it Daisy the postal girl?” Tessa gasped. “Does Mike love her? Who knew? He never chased after any girls… too shy, that’s what’s done him in.” That afternoon, Daisy passed by their house, out doing her postal rounds. Tessa was waiting. “So you went and married Graham, Daisy? Just tossed Mike aside? Can you not see how he suffers… maybe that’s why he drinks. Why’d you do that to my boy?” Daisy was taken aback, lost for words, but eventually managed, “Tessa, I promise I don’t understand… I hardly know what you mean.” “You don’t know?” Tessa replied with a frown. “You and Mike never spent time together?” “No, honestly never. Sure, we’d bump into each other—exchange a few words—but that’s it, Tessa. I really don’t know where you got this from—Mike never even looked my way, much less went out with me.” “He’s just so timid…” Tessa added. “Well, Mike…” Daisy breathed out. “Alright, Tessa, I’ll talk to him, I promise. Maybe it’ll help.” A couple of days later, Daisy was out with her mailbag when she spotted the usual crowd hanging around on logs by the road, drinking—and Mike was with them. “Look at you lot, the local drunks,” she said, pausing. “Mike, why are you here? I need a word.” The rest scurried off, but Mike hung his head. Daisy sat beside him. “So, tell me, how long’s this been going on?” “What’s been going on?” Mike asked. “You fancy me…” “How do you know?” “I figured it out. Tell me—how long?” “Since school…” Mike confessed. Daisy was shocked—she’d never realised. She paused, then gently said, “Mike, if you love someone, you wish them well—you stay decent, not sinking into drink like this. You’re not helping anything, just hurting yourself—and your mum. She’s heartsick about you. Everyone in the village can see how quickly things went downhill for you. Do you understand?” “I do…” he said quietly. “But it’s still hard…” “Mike, you’re a man—pull yourself together, don’t let yourself fall apart. And look at me honestly—am I really so gorgeous you need to pine after me? My legs are crooked, I’m hopeless at housework, my home’s a mess—what’s to love? I’m stubborn too… You’ll find your real love someday, and happiness will follow. Please—have some pity on your mum, spare Tessa the heartache.” Daisy stood up and walked on, leaving Mike watching her sadly. “You’re still the best, no matter what you say about yourself,” he whispered quietly. That afternoon Daisy spotted Graham’s van outside the shop. “Huh, Graham’s supposed to be in the city today. Bit early to be back…” She popped into the shop. There was no one at the counter, but the shopgirl Tanya popped out of the storeroom, sorting her hair and blushing deeply. “Daisy—can I help with something?” “No, just saw my husband’s van—he should be in town.” “Oh…well… his van broke down—he went to the garage for parts.” “Alright, fair enough,” Daisy replied, leaving the shop. Life in the village drifted on. Daisy continued delivering papers, pension cheques, and parcels—but didn’t see Mike around anymore. Not with the lads, not on the streets—she began to worry. When she handed the newspaper over to Tessa, she asked, “Tessa, haven’t seen Mike in ages.” “He’s home. Given up drink, keeps busy chopping logs, sorting things in the yard, then pops inside. Not a drop—his old crowd came by, but he sent them packing.” “Oh, Tessa—I’m so glad. If he’s quit, things’ll get better.” “God willing—thanks, Daisy. He told me you’d had words with him…” Daisy laughed and continued her route, posting letters and papers through doorways. Arriving at the shop, she saw Graham’s van again. She darted up the steps and stopped, shocked—Graham was in Tanya’s arms, kissing her. They hadn’t even noticed Daisy at first. “Oh!” she blurted out, “Not the best timing…” The pair sprang apart. “Daisy, we’ll talk at home,” Graham muttered, not meeting her eyes, while Tanya stared boldly. “Why not now? Better than sneaking around—it’s about time. Graham and I have loved each other for ages. I cheated on him once, he got angry, and married you to spite me… That’s right, isn’t it Graham?” He nodded. “Even married to you, he never stopped loving me.” “Daisy… at home…” tried Graham. “No need, I’ve seen enough—nothing left to explain.” Daisy ran out of the shop. Her mother tried to comfort her. “I did warn you, love—I never trusted Graham. You’ve made a mistake out of innocence… But mistakes can be fixed. Everything will work out for the best.” Before long, news of the divorce raced through the village. Daisy filed for divorce. In a small place, you can’t keep secrets—everyone already knew about Graham and Tanya, though Daisy found out last. News about the divorce traveled fast. “Mike, hear the latest?” Tessa told him after coming home from the shop. “Daisy’s divorcing Graham. He cheated with Tanya. Time to get up and do something—go get your old job back, I spoke to your boss just now. He’s happy you’ve quit drinking and will take you back.” “Mum, I always knew about Graham and Tanya… I just couldn’t tell Daisy. She’d never have believed me…” Soon another headline made its way through the gossip grapevine. “Have you heard? Mike and Daisy are getting married—three cheers for them,” Granny Edith gossiped to the ladies outside the shop, “Tessa’s over the moon—she’s beaming; I swear she looks ten years younger!” “And that’s as it should be,” chimed in neighbour Val, “Mike’s a steady lad, Daisy’s lucky. He’s turned things round—shows you what love can do.” “And as for Graham and Tanya—what a pair. Never should have married Daisy. Him and Tanya go way back. But Tanya’s not trustworthy—he’ll regret it one day,” declared Granny Edith. Mike was soon home at the kitchen table. Daisy bustled, serving him soup, cutlets, and warm pie from the oven. She took her seat, grinning at him. “Delicious, Daisy!” he ate with gusto. “Funny—you once said you were useless at keeping house…” “Oh, I am, Mike. And I’m a bit of a handful…” Daisy giggled. But Mike glanced around the spotless, cozy kitchen and replied, “I always knew you were the best.” “Mike, and I’m pregnant!” Daisy blurted, making his eyes go wide. He leapt from the table. “Daisy, really? I’m so happy—seriously, you are the best!” He pulled her into a tight hug, kissing her. Daisy gave birth to a daughter, and three years later a son. Happiness for all, especially mother-in-law Tessa, who doted on Daisy and her grandchildren. Life in the village carried on, just as it should.

Youre Still the Best

The wedding had come and gone in the villageEmily and Samuel were now husband and wife. English village weddings tend to be spirited affairs, with laughter drifting long into the night. Revelers continued their celebrations, some lounging on benches outside cottages, others sipping pints together in hidden corners. Any excuse for merrymaking would suffice.

Emily and Samuel moved at once into the home of his grandmother, separate from both their families. Samuel worked as a delivery driver, steering his white van between nearby towns, bringing goods to the villages two shops.

Their courtship was brief. Samuel knew, even during their short talks across the village green, that Emily, with her gentle manner, would make for a caring wife. Two months from their first date, it was settled.

Em, lets just get married, Samuel proposed one cool evening as they strolled past the old church.

Already? So fast?

Why wait? Weve known each other since we were kids. Im just two years ahead at school. What do you say, then?

There was a beat, then Emily glowed, Yes. Id love to.

Emilys mother was astonished when she heard about Samuels proposal.

Well, my girl, thats rather quick of Sam, she worried, folding her arms. Are you sure he truly loves you? And you how do you feel about him, really?

I do, Mum. I really like him.

Alright, sweetheart. I just hope you wont regret your choice. A husband is meant to be your greatest support.

Lately, the villagers had noticed that Michael had begun drinking too much. He used to be decenta bit shy and awkward, but hardworking as the villages combine harvester operator. Now he hung about with idle lads who spent days drinking in the field corners.

Lucy, whats happening with your Michael? the neighbours whispered. Solid lad, used to be depended on for the harvest. If he keeps at it, hell get sacked, mark my words.

Month after month, Michael couldnt shake the drink. His mother pleaded, scolded, begged in earnestbut nothing changed. When harvest arrived, Michael was nowhere to be found. Unable to work, he was let go. It was hard to believe: just last year, he knew the machines inside and out.

Whats happened to Michael? old Mrs. Edith tutted, bumping into Lucy at the post office. Saw him drunk again, barely made it home. Such a good lad, I told you somethings gone wrong.

Lucy could only shake her head, distraught. Home again, she found Michael sprawled on the sofa, mumbling softly to himself. She leaned close to listen.

Emily Emily why did you marry him? Why, why I love you

My goodness, is it Emily, our postwoman? Does he love her? Lucy gasped, stumbling back. No one knew, not a soul. He never courted any girl, always so withdrawn. His shy nature has been his undoing.

That afternoon, Emily passed their cottage, sorting mail. Lucy waited out front.

So, Emily, you married Sam and just brushed Michael aside, did you? Hes sufferingmaybe even drinking for it. Why did you treat my boy like that?

Emily froze, speechless. Regaining composure, she stammered, Mrs. Lucy, I dont understand. What do you mean?

She says she doesnt get it, Lucy said with a grimace. Didnt you go out with my Michael?

No, never. Sometimes we met by chance, shared a few words, thats all. Mrs. Lucy, this is news to me. Michael barely noticed me! Where did you hear such things?

He loves you, child. He does. I overheard him mumbling today. Hes far too shy and never confessed it. Now hes drinking himself senseless

Oh, Mrs. Lucy. I had no idea, truly. Never crossed my mind, I promisehe honestly never paid me any attention

Too timid for his own good Lucy sighed.

Michael Emily exhaled. Alright, Ill talk to him, Mrs. Lucy. Maybe itll help.

A couple of days later, Emily was out with her mailbag, dodging puddles along the main lane, when she saw a group of lads sitting on logs by the roadside, passing around cans. Michael was amongst them.

All settled in, are you, boozers? she said, halting before them. Michael, what are you doing here? I need a word. Quickly the others slipped around the corner, leaving Michael sitting, head bowed. She joined him on the log.

So, how long has this been going on?

What do you mean? He looked up, eyes dull.

Being in love with me

Howd you figure?

I guessed. Not long ago. Just tell me.

Since school Michael admitted. Emily was stunned, never having suspected. She paused, then said quietly,

Michael, if someone truly loves another, they wish them wellthey dont destroy themselves, nor their family. Why drown yourself like this? All youre doing is hurting yourself and your mum. Shes terrified. Folks are shocked at how quickly youve hit the skids. Do you understand?

He nodded, timidly. Still hurts, though

Youre a grown man, Michael. Get a grip, stand up straight. And look at medont go wasting away over me. My legs are crooked, Im a lousy homemaker, always messy nothing about me to adore! Im stubborn too, so theres not much worth loving. One day, youll find someone truly right for youhappiness will come, I promise. Just dont break your mothers heart, please.

Emily stood, walked away. Michael gazed mournfully after her.

Youre still the best, no matter what you say he murmured.

As Emily passed the shop, she saw her husbands van outside.

Thats oddSam was meant to be in town. Hes home early, she wondered, stepping inside.

No one stood at the counter. Suddenly, Sallythe shopkeeperappeared from the storeroom, cheeks flushed as she fussed with her hair.

Hello, Emily! Want something?

No, just noticed Sams van. He should be in town, shouldnt he?

Oh well he needed some spare parts from the garage. Thats all.

Oh, I see. Never mind, then. Emily headed out.

Life in the village bobbed along quietly. Emily continued delivering papers and pensions, but Michael no longer appeared, not among friends or even on the street. This worried her slightly. As she handed Lucy the morning post by the gate, she asked,

Mrs. Lucy, I havent seen Michael about.

Hes at home, dear. Stopped drinking. Chops wood, potters around the yard, then back indoors. Sober as a judge now. His drinking pals dropped by and he chucked them out.

Im happy for you both, Mrs. Lucy. If hes off drink, things will improve.

God willing. Thank you, Emily. You talked to himhe told me.

Emily smiled, moving on, slipping letters into letterboxes. Arriving at the shop again, she noticed Sams van for the second time that week. Running up the steps, Emily was floored by what she saw: Samuel had his arms wrapped around Sally, kissing her. For a moment, neither noticed her.

Oh! she gasped. Excuse meI didnt mean to interrupt They sprang apart.

Emily, well talk at home, Samuel muttered, eyes low. Sally looked Emily squarely in the eyes, unfazed.

Why not here? Better late than never! Weve loved each other ages. I cheated once, Sam got angry, married you as revenge. Isnt that right, Sam? He nodded, sheepish. His marriage never stopped our love.

Emily, lets talk at home Sam began.

Theres nothing left to say. Its all clear, Emily said before storming out.

Her mother consoled her later that evening.

My girl, I warned you. I never trusted Sam, and you so naïve, you made a mistake. Its not too late to start again. Youll be alright.

Word of the divorce sped through the village

Emily filed for divorce. Village gossip travels faster than the post, and everyone learned about Samuel and Sallys affaireven though Emily, like most wives, was the last to find out. The news of their split spread fast.

Michael, Ive got news, Lucy said, returning from the shop. Emily and Sam are divorcing; he cheated with Sally. Its your time, lad. Apply for your job again. I saw your manager, Mr. Charleshell take you back. Hes been keeping an eye on you, knows you kicked the drink.

Mum, I always suspected Sam but I couldn’t tell Emily. Shed never have believed me

Soon enough, village chatter erupted again.

Did you hear? Michael and Emily are marrying. Weddings set! Mrs. Edith declared to the ladies outside the grocer. Lucys actually looking younger with joy.

Good for themMichaels a quiet sort, will be good for Emily. Got off the booze, well done. Love really does wonders, agreed Jenny, Lucys neighbour.

As for Sam and Sallyfancy that. Whyd he bother marrying Emily, when he was with Sally all along? Sally will put him through the wringer yet, regret it he will, Edith scoffed.

Michael came home, sank into his chair at the kitchen table. Emily busied herself, ladling him hearty beef stew, piling homemade pies and meat patties before him, laughing as she joined him at the table.

My, this tastes brilliant, Em, he said, devouring his dinner. Funny, you always said youre no good as a housewife

Oh, but I am, Michaelhopeless and stubborn, Emily chuckled.

But Michael glanced around their spotless, cosy kitchen and replied,

I always knew you were the best.

Michael, theres something else Im pregnant, Emily blurted out. His eyes widened; he leaped up, speechless with joy.

Emilyare you serious? Oh love, Im so happy! See, I told you, youre simply the best! He embraced her hard, showering her with kisses.

Emily gave birth to a daughter, and three years later, a son. The family flourishedespecially Lucy, now grandmother, who doted on her daughter-in-law and grandchildren. Life in the village carried on, gentle and contented.