Revenge Fell Flat
Lillian walked leisurely down the deserted corridor of the office building. Only the muted sound of her heels and the distant hum of the lifts at the far end broke the silence. The clock on the wall read ten to eightshe was running almost two hours late, but it didnt bother her in the least. Inside, she felt an uncommon, soothing sense of deep satisfaction: the project she’d poured three months of effort into was finally finished.
Her mind wandered back to the project. What an ordeal those three months had been! From the very start, the client proved himselfunique. Today he wanted the presentation one way, tomorrowcompletely different. He changed his specs so frequently that people in the department joked, If you hear his name, just take a deep breath first. Some of her colleagues even started showing nervous twitches, so exhausting were the endless edits and sudden whims.
But now it was over. The document was signed, the final report sent, and that meant that soon, everyone on the team would receive a handsome bonus. The thought made her smileat last, justice had prevailed.
Lillian, are you still here? Its awfully late!
She turned. Of course, it was Simon. The young man from the department next door, who for the past two months always seemed to be nearby whenever she least expected it. He always found a reason to start a conversationasking for her thoughts on a report, about some new software, or simply bumping into her by the coffee machine.
Lillian managed a polite smile. He was a decent enough chap, but the age gapa good twenty yearsrendered his attempts to court her slightly awkward. She appreciated his kindness, but couldnt quite figure out why he kept making these gentle, yet unmistakable, advances. Surely, a smart lad like him should realise that nothing but a working relationship could ever be between them.
Yes, I got caught up a bit, she replied calmly, making her voice friendly but without any warmth. The project is finally done.
Simon stepped closer, tucking his hands in his trouser pockets. There was something between genuine concern and a hopeful plea for conversation in his eyes.
Wow, congratulations! Its said the client was rather he paused, casting about for the right word, difficult. But still, staying so late isnt healthy!
Lillian smirked. Difficult was putting it mildly. But now, those complications already felt far less daunting. In the end, alls well that ends well.
Its no bother. At least the whole department can exhale now, she said, fixing on her usual formal smile. She tried to keep her voice neutral, emotionlessshe knew how easily the wrong word might lead Simon to misinterpret her. One slip, and the situation could spiral in precisely the direction she did not wish.
Let me give you a lift? Your cars still out of action, right? Simon blurted out, so keenly that it was obvious he’d been waiting for a chance to offer help. There was hope in his eyes, and his face was an earnest plea to be useful.
Lillian inwardly sighed. Simon, SimonYou look like an eager little dog waiting for his owners command! she thought with a trace of amusement. He radiated exuberance: eyes bright, body tense, as if he might bounce with excitement. Endearing, in its way, but she had no desire to encourage him further.
Thank you, but Ive already booked a taxi, Lillian replied, maintaining an easy, somewhat distant tone. She took a step to one side, intending to walk past him toward the exit.
But Simon quickly blocked her path, raising his hand to stop her.
Thats not safe! he exclaimed, frowning in genuine worry. You never know whos driving these days. Could be some maniac for all you know!
Lillian froze, surprised at his passionate outburst. He was clearly serious, truly concerned for her safety. She saw not just fondness, but a sort of desperationas if he just wanted a few more minutes in her company.
Simon, the woman said firmly, Ill be perfectly fine. Using a taxi to get around is completely normal. Theres no danger in it.
She tried again to skirt around him, this time more determinedly. Simon stepped back, but persisted:
But I could make sure you get home safely! My cars running, I drive carefully
Ive used this company for years, and I know the driver whos picking me up, Lillian replied with measured patience, as though speaking to a child. She kept her words gentle, but unmistakably firm. Besides, its rude to keep people waiting, so Ill be off now, all right?
Her voice, while not sharp, was undeniably insistent. She had no wish to be unkind, but saw no reason to prolong this exchange.
Sidestepping the crestfallen young man, Lillian hurried off to the exit. She could feel Simons gaze on her back and imagined his expressiondisappointed, perhaps a little wounded, even bewildered. But it was unavoidable.
As she walked, she pondered how tricky it could be to set boundaries in such situations. Had Simon not been the son of the finance director, everything would have been much easier. She could have simply said, Sorry, but Im not interested, and that would settle it. But as things were, she had to tread carefully, navigating all the sharp edges.
On the one hand, giving him hope would have been wrong. On the other, a stinging rebuke might cause trouble at work. She knew full well how the company prized its family connections, and was aware that upsetting the directors son could mean more than just an awkward sceneit could spell trouble for her whole department.
For Simon, any no seems harshhes clearly not used to refusal, especially if it concerns his feelings, she thought with a sigh. His concern was almost touching in its way, but that only made things harder.
Outside, Lillian breathed in the cool evening air. Her taxi was just outside; the familiar driver nodded to her through the window. She climbed in, shot a glance back towards the building, and thought: Lets hope he doesnt try to follow me home again, like last time.
The road ahead promised peace and quietexactly what she needed after such a tense conversation. She sat back, closed her eyes, and tried to drive Simon and his misplaced affections from her mind. Tomorrow would bring work againat least there, things were clear and manageable
*************
The companys thirtieth anniversary do was held at an upmarket restaurant. The spacious hall glimmered with lights, the tables groaned with sumptuous dishes, and gentle music drifted from the speakers. Normally reserved and business-like, the staff had relaxed: jokes flew, laughter rang out, and the champagne flowed steadily.
Lillian kept herself to the fringes, preferring to watch at a distance. She sipped sparkling water, exchanging pleasantries with colleagues from time to time. All was going welluntil Simon came into view.
Hed been rather unobtrusive at first, but with every glass he became bolder. At first, he merely glanced at Lillian, then inched closer. Eventually, slightly unsteady, he struck straight for her. His eyes flashed with uncharacteristic resolve, his face touched by an odd, confused smile.
Ive made up my mind, Simon announced, loud enough to rise above the din, stopping in front of Lillian. The weddings in a month. Well live at mine. Youll quit work and wait for me at home!
His words were so absurd and unexpected that Lillian was momentarily dumbstruck. She stared, trying to tell if he was joking or serious. But the look in his eye and his rigid stance made it clear: he genuinely meant it.
Without waiting for her response, Simon lunged towards herclearly attempting to kiss her. At that, Lillian snapped out of her daze, stepping back so abruptly she nearly knocked her drink over.
Her face flushed with anger. All the months of awkward moments, forced smiles and careful evasions, all the snide remarks from colleagues about Simons wooingit all surged up, demanding release.
What on earth do you think youre doing? Her normally composed voice was now sharp, attracting sidelong glances from nearby tables. Wedding? What nonsense are you spouting?
Simon tried to say something, but Lillian cut him off:
Enough! she said, raising her voice, indifferent to who overheard. Your ridiculous attempts at courting me have become an embarrassment. Ive made it clear endless times that Im not interested, but you refuse to see it! Ive had to put up with jokes, excuses, avoiding conversations
Her words poured out with the exhaustion and exasperation shed bottled up.
Do you know what? If you dont leave me alone, Ill quit. I dont need a job that comes with constant inappropriate advances and rudeness!
By now, a semicircle of curious faces had formed around them. Some colleagues had frozen, glasses in hand; others leaned over, eyes on the hall décor as a pretext. Lillian didnt care. She was saying what needed saying, and felt the weight lift from her shoulders at last.
Simon stood motionless, as if struck. His previously confident face now looked lost andwas it fear? He opened his mouth, but nothing came out.
Think about it, Lillian added coldly, then turned and strode toward the exit, leaving Simon surrounded by prying eyes and a heavy silence.
She stood in the shadowy corridor by a window, trying to steady her breathing and stop her hands shaking. Inside, she seethed with anger. The entire scene replayed itself in her mind on a loop. She took a deep breath, turned to her colleague standing quietly at her elbow, and finally let it out:
It infuriates me that I cant just chase off an entitled boy simply because his mothers so high up in the company! Her voice trembled with suppressed rage. Does anyone think I couldnt find a new job if I tried? I get offers every month! Ten years in this line of workI have references, a portfolio And yet I must endure the behaviour of a child who cant take no for an answer!
She clenched her fists, glaring out at the darkness behind the glass. Her flushed, determined reflection stared back.
Before her colleague could reply, a firm, commanding voice rang out behind them.
No need to resign.
Lillian turned. Striding toward them, elegant and purposeful in her navy suit, was Margaret Watsonthe formidable company director. Her face was serious, her eyes a mix of fatigue and decision.
I apologise for my sons behaviour, she went on, halting just in front of Lillian. I had no idea it had come to this. Tomorrow, Im transferring him to a different branch. This isnt awkward anymoreits a disgrace.
At that moment, a disgruntled voice came from the hall:
Stop deciding things for me! Simon, a little unsteady, forced his way through the crowd to stand by his mother. His face was red, his eyes blazing. I dont want to be transferred! And I wont accept being turned down! Youll see, LillianIll get back at you!
Lillian turned pale. She wanted to say something, but the words caught in her throat. She felt a sour blend of anger and fear knot inside.
Margaret turned sharply to her son. Her face grew still more severe.
Hes had more than enough, she said coldly, now addressing the security guard who had quietly approached. Please help him outside. See him to his car.
The guard nodded and moved toward Simon. He tried to object, but his mother cut him off:
Well talk at home. Now, go.
Simon scowled at Lillian, muttering something as he left. Under his mothers icy glare and the watchful guard, he complied. He was escorted out, and for a moment, quiet fell in the corridor.
Margaret turned back to Lillian. Her face lost its severitynow, there was only weariness and sincere concern.
Im sorry again, she murmured. Ill make sure this never happens again. You have my word.
With a short nod, she walked off, leaving Lillian and her colleague standing in the shadow, together in the aftermath of a drama neither would soon forget
***************
Mum, Im in love! Milly cried as she swept into the drawing room. Her face shone, eyes glittering with excitement, and her lips parted in a beaming smile that made Lillian smile in response. Her daughter threw herself onto the sofa, tucking her legs underneath, practically bursting to share her news. Hes so wonderful! So thoughtful, so kindabsolutely perfect!
Standing by the window with her cup of tea, Lillian smiled warmly. It felt good to see her daughter so alight with joyrecently, Milly had seemed a bit withdrawn, but now she practically glowed.
So, whats this paragon called, then? she asked, her tone composed, though inside she felt a rush of maternal delight.
Simon! Milly breathed, lost in dreams, not noticing her mother freeze at that name. Hes lovely, Mum! Honestly! All my friends are envious; they say a boy like thats a real catch.
Lillian set her cup down slowly. Memories rushed through her mind: Simons relentless attention, the awkward scenes at work, the infamous night at the party She took a steadying breath, careful not to let any emotion show.
And when do I get to meet this amazing young man? she asked, arching an eyebrow. Usually, Lillian kept out of her daughters private affairsshe believed everyone needed their space. But just now, the idea that her friends already knew Simon when she herself hadnt met him stung a little.
Next week! Milly replied eagerly. Im inviting him to Grans birthday do. I want everyone to meet himall the family. Were serious about each other, Mum. Weve evenwell, weve talked about marriage.
Lillian went rigid. Inside, she was gripped by anxiety, but she pulled herself together. She mustnt spoil her daughters happiness with hasty words or ill-judged questions. Best to stay calm, gather the facts first.
I cant wait, she said, making her voice as pleasant and steady as possible. Id love to meet the man who makes my daughter so happy.
Milly sprang from the sofa, ran over and hugged her tightly.
Youre the best, Mum! she whispered gratefully. Im so glad I can tell you everything!
**************
Saturday dawned busy at the familys country house. Gran, Edith Taylor, bustled about the kitchen, double-checking everything for her guests. The warmth of fresh scones drifted through the rooms, and the living room was full of the chattering of grandchildren fiddling with the music systemno party would be complete without it, they’d declared.
By midday, relatives began to arrive. Some brought homemade jams, others bouquets for the table, and the youngest immediately scattered round the garden, exploring every familiar nook and cranny. Soon, the house bristled with voices, laughter, the scrape of chairs, the chink of china.
When everyone had crammed round the long dining table, the guest tally exceeded thirtyand that was just close family, uncles and aunts, cousins, grans friends and old neighbours. Conversation poured forth, interrupted by peals of laughter, and from the open windows came snatches of talk and clinking glasses. The celebrations rang out across the large lawn.
Seated at the head, Gran kept glancing toward the doorMilly and her boyfriend were late. But soon a message pinged her phone: Were on our way, start without us! She smiled and waved her hand.
Well then, lets raise a glass to get the festivities started! The latecomers can join us in a bit.
The party was in full swing when the front door flew open and in walked Milly and her young man. Milly was radiant, eyes shining, a huge smile on her face. She was arm in arm with a decent-looking lad, who came in confidently.
Here we are! Milly announced, drawing everyones attention. This is my fiancé, Simon. I do hope youll welcome him!
The room turned; chatter, smiles and camera phones all focused on the pair.
Lillian, not far from the door, went rigid. For an instant, she couldnt believe her eyes. There stood Simonthe very same insistent colleague whod embarrassed her in public months before. In a rush, she realised her daughter was smitten with this man.
Simon, as if on cue, fixed her with a self-satisfied smirk. He was relishing this. The humiliation at the party, Lillians public rejectionhe clearly hadnt forgotten. Now, thanks to Milly, he saw his chance: become the son-in-law, gain a measure of power over the one whod once spurned him.
Delighted to meet you, I Simon began, stepping forward to shake Gran Ediths hand.
But before he could finish, Lillian shot up from her seat, her face flushed with fury, her voice loud enough to silence the entire table:
Get out! Nick, throw him outgive him a good kick for me! Imagine the cheektrying to use my own daughter to get back at me!
A dead silence fell. Guests froze, glasses mid-air, unsure how to react. Someone awkwardly pushed back a chair, another reached for a napkin to hide their embarrassment.
Mum Millys voice trembled, her gaze darting from her fiancé to her mother, confused and hurt. What are you saying? Whats all this about?
Lillian pressed on, ignoring the shocked faces of the family as she stepped up to Simon, her eyes blazing.
Hes that foolish boy who disgraced himself at our office do! she snapped. Margaret Watson swore shed sort you out! Said shed have you sent to another branch! But instead, you think youll have the last laugh through my daughter?
Simon blanched but tried to compose himself, opening his mouth to protest, but Milly interrupted, turning to him.
So its true? Simon, did you really hassle my own mother? In front of everyone?! Her voice was soft with disbelief.
Simons hands clenched, his face bitter:
Youve told her? he spat at Lillian, his tone bursting with wounded rage. How could youhow could you make me out to be an idiot in front of your own child?
With that, Lillians big brother was the first to break the tension, letting out a deep, booming laugh. He slapped his knee and managed through his mirth, Well, Milly, what a lark of a fiancé youve found! I saw that ridiculous proposalthought it was some sort of joke! And now, just look whats happened!
His infectious laughter lifted the gloom, hesitantly at first, but then louder, as the rest of the family joined in. Some hid their faces with their hands, unable to stifle their laughter. Aunt Mary dabbed her eyes, Uncle George tapped his glass to spur the hilarity.
At first, Milly stood frozen, watching the room erupt with laughter. Anger and confusion still clouded her face, but then it dawned on herthe silly, preening boy from the office video really was her Simon. She remembered his pompous declarations, his cocksure tone, his desperate scramble to look the heroand the true absurdity struck her.
Suddenly, Milly laughed tooquietly at first, then openly, the sound spilling out in great, releasing waves. Her laughter swept away her embarrassment, her illusions, her hurt.
Meanwhile, Simon stood by the door, crimson with shame, fists clenched and unclenched, his eyes burning. He had expected applause, respect, a heros welcome. Instead, there was only ridicule, the whispers and snickers of a family amused by his folly.
Without another word, he spun round and strode out, shoulders tight, steps uneven. The slam of the gate rang through the fading laughter.
The plan hed nursed for so longrevenge on Lillian by way of her daughter, forcing his way in and gaining the upper handhad crashed spectacularly. Now, hed live with the knowledge that the whole family saw him as the punchline to a long and embarrassing joke.
As the laughter subsided, Uncle George, still smiling, put a reassuring arm around Millys shoulders.
Dont worry, love, he said kindly. Well find you a better chap. One with a sense of humour, a bit of senseand none of that drama nonsense!
Again, friendly laughter rippled round the roomthis time warm, not mocking. The talk turned to happier topics, stories of comical family incidents, and someone suggested moving on to dessert.
Milly wiped away tearsof laughter, this timeand smiled. In that moment, she felt the weight shed carried since Simons arrival finally melt away. She looked around at the familiar, caring faces and knew: things had worked out for the bestWhen the laughter faded, Lillian reached out and took Millys trembling hand. Their eyes met, mother and daughter measuring the brittle edges of the moment, and in that silent exchange was forgiveness, relief, and a promise to trust each other more in the future.
The party surged on, filling the house with music and the clatter of desserts. Gran insisted everyone have a double helping of her famous pudding, and amid the hubbub, Lillian found herself surroundedby family, by warmth, by the odd, hard-earned freedom of someone whod finally drawn her line in the sand. No more careful evasions, no more swallowing pride for peace. The lesson was clear: sometimes, when you risk everything for honesty, you win not just your own peace, but the laughter of those who matter most.
Later, as dusk gathered behind the oak trees and the youngest children lit sparklers on the lawn, Lillian slipped outside for air. Milly joined her, linking arms and gazing up at the first stars appearing overhead.
Sono more Simons, Milly said quietly, but with a grin.
Definitely no more Simons, Lillian agreed, a sparkle in her own eyes now.
They watched the lights together, wrapped in a hush that spoke of the world righting itself at last. From inside, Grans voice drifted through the window, calling them in for cake and silly stories of years gone by.
Milly squeezed her mothers hand, and with a smile that was brighter than the sparklers, led her back insideto join the family, to laughter, and to the next chapter. And for the first time in months, Lillian felt as if shed truly come home.
