A Chance Encounter
The autumn wind danced across the pavement, swirling gold and brown leaves into the air before depositing them again onto the rain-soaked road. Lily strolled leisurely through the heart of London, her hand absentmindedly pulling up the collar of her new cashmere coat to ward off the brisk chill. Shed only just stepped out of the salon her hair elegantly styled, make-up flawless, every detail of her appearance meticulously arranged. In her mind, Lily drafted her to-do list for the coming days. Sign up for yoga a must. Pick a dress for the party this weekend preferably before Saturday. Check out the new boutique on High Street why not? Her thoughts flowed freely, spurred on by the lively autumn breeze.
It was precisely at that moment that she accidentally collided with someone. A light jolt, the rustle of a coat, a sudden moment of confusion.
Oh, Im so sorry! she blurted instinctively, glancing up.
In front of her stood Michael. Yes, that Michael who once flitted around their old circle of friends, nearly a decade ago, perhaps longer. Time had left its mark in the form of silver threads at his temples and fine lines around his eyes, giving his face a tired yet still vibrant look. His gaze, however, was unchanged sharp, slightly amused, as if he was trying to read what was hidden behind her smile from the very first moment.
Lily? It cant be! he broke into a grin, though she noticed something strained about it, as if he wasnt entirely sincere. What brings you back to London?
Just visiting family, she replied, sizing him up with the faintest flicker of disdain. Ordinary coat, nothing impressive, no signs of luxury or status. He looked like any one of the hundreds of people passing by. And you? Still wrapped up in those what did you call them computer things?
Programming, Lily. And yes, still at it. You, on the other hand, look as dazzling as ever. Paris? Milan?
Oh, you know, lifes been wonderful, she said, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear with a practiced, airy smile. And you? Family? Children?
Wife, two lads. Just as it should be, he shrugged, but pride bled into his words despite himself. And you? Still searching for Prince Charming?
I decide who Im looking for, she replied coolly, chin slightly raised. By the way, have you seen Simon? I ran into him not long ago.
Michael hesitated, weighing his answer before finally responding with deliberate enjoyment. Simon? Youre behind the times. Hes quite the big deal now. Department head at a major firm, fantastic salary makes your eyes water. House in Kensington, latest Audi Lifes been good to him.
A shiver of something stirred in Lily. Simon? Her Simon, who used to scrape by, always fretting about money and never quite confident enough to take big risks? Now he was successful, the owner of a luxury car and a house in a prestigious postcode? She could barely believe it.
Youre joking, she whispered, trying to hide her surprise. Her voice wavered, but she quickly regained her composure. He always seemed so mild-mannered. Not exactly ambitious.
Exactly! Michael laughed, genuinely surprised, maybe even impressed. We all thought the same. But he turned his life around. Gorgeous wife, two kids Picture-perfect.
Lily clenched her fists inside her coat pockets. Jealousy, irritation, and above all, a burning curiosity roiled inside her. How? How did he manage it? Why hadnt she heard about it sooner? Once, theyd been so close sharing dreams and plans. Now she learned about his success from a chance encounter.
Interesting, she drawled, working to sound disinterested, hiding her true thoughts. Where does he work now? Perhaps Ill drop by, congratulate him
Michael looked at her with unconcealed irony, tilting his head as if to say, Do you really think its that simple?
Think thats wise? After everything?
What do you mean, after everything? Lily arched her eyebrow, trying for indifference. We simply split up. That doesnt mean I cant be pleased for an old friend.
Hmm, Michael shook his head, and his tone carried a faint warning. Just dont say I didnt warn you. Simons not the same man. Neither is his life.
Hes changed, has he? Lily smiled wryly, a glint of intrigue in her eye. Privately, she measured the possibilities this unexpected news might unlock. Fate seemed to be offering her a lucky ticketa chance to re-enter the life of someone she hadnt thought about for ages. Care to elaborate?
A frown creased Michaels forehead. Part of him instantly regretted ever saying anything. Why had he let himself get drawn in? A moment ago, hed simply been on his way, and now he found himself defending his mate from this scheming woman.
And why should I tell you anything? he shot back, his irritation sharpening his voice. Dont poke your nose into his business. Simons doing fine: loving wife, two delightful kids. Youve no place therenot after everything you put him through.
Lily lifted her chin, outwardly composed, though inside she seethednot so much at the words themselves, but at the unyielding tone. She was used to people accommodating her, not calling her out.
Dont patronise me! she snapped, rapidly assessing that nothing more could be squeezed from Michael. It didnt really matter, after all. She knew enough now; there were always ways to get more. His refusal even gave her a certain thrill. The only thing that bothered her was whether hed warn Simon about their conversation. On second thought, that might actually work in her favourSimon would no doubt be intrigued why shed suddenly resurfaced.
I only want to know how my ex is doing. Whats so wrong with that? We spent three years together, after all! she added, feigning a touch of hurt in her voice, as if appealing to someone with no right to judge.
Hes been with Kate for ten years! Michael couldnt keep the sarcasm from his tone. What really brought you back? Your wealthy admirer finally sent you packing?
Lily froze for a split second before producing an enchanting smile, appearing unruffled. She silently sent him to the farthest reaches of her mind. He certainly knew how to strike a nerve. That smug smirk as if hed already woninfuriating. But she wasnt about to let him see that.
Thats none of your business. And look, if I decide to rekindle things with Simon, his wife is hardly an obstacle. You do realise who he still truly loves, dont you? Lilys words were light, even flippant, but her insides were knotted with tension. She watched Michael closely for any flicker of doubt. Your face says you know. So just stay out of it.
Michael hesitated, debating whether to continue. His expression grew briefly serious, but then he suddenly stepped back and waved a hand dismissively as if to shed any burden.
Fine, he said airily. Who am I to meddle? But fair warning if Simon ditches his perfectly good life with Kate for your drama, Ill lose all respect for him.
Lily raised her chin defiantly, keeping her composure. Her fingers balled up in her pockets, but her voice was even and strong.
Oh, hell survive just fine without your respect. Well sort our lives out ourselves, thanks. And if we choose to open our hearts again
Yes, yes, thats your business, Michael interrupted before she finished, not bothering to listen further.
He shot her a withering look, brimming with clear disapproval. Continuing the conversation was suddenly repulsive to himas if hed inadvertently brushed up against something filthy. Without another word, he skirted around Lily, almost as if afraid to be soiled.
As he strode away, a smirk played on Michaels lips. Let her try, he thought; hed enjoy watching the fallout. Deep down, he doubted Simon would ever truly give up his family for Lilys sudden reappearance. Simon prized his home, his children, his comfort too much to chuck it all for an old flame. But if he did well, then hed regret it bitterly.
************************
Lily stood in front of the mirror, scrutinising her reflection. She softly hummed a catchy tune stuck in her head all day, double-checking that everything was perfect. This evening was pivotala meeting that could change everything. She was determined to look faultless; she wanted to reawaken the feelings Simon once had for her. Every detail was considered: a dress that hugged her figure, elegant heels, tasteful jewellery. She even chose the same fragrance shed worn when they were together.
Eleven years had passed since their three-year relationship ended. Back then, everything seemed simple and obvious. Lily recalled those days with little regretmore with idle curiosity, as if she were flipping through an old book. The breakup was almost mundane: she simply didnt believe Simon could ever amount to much.
He worked hard enough, but there were no prospects. He seemed content with routine, and she couldnt bear the thought of settling for so little. Each day was a repeat: early alarm, Tube to the office, eight hours of uninspired work, home to his small flat in Croydon, evenings in front of the telly. Holidays were spent no further afield than Devon or the Lake District. That was his worldand he seemed perfectly happy with it.
But Lily wanted so much more. She was twenty-three, brimming with energy and ambition. Men admired her everywhere she went, lavishing her with compliments. But she sought a higher life. She didnt want to work hard herself or settle for modest comforts. She dreamed of glamorous holidays abroad, luxury gifts appearing like magic, the daily thrill of being the centre of attention and desire.
Simon simply couldnt give her all that. He tried, but his idea of happiness came nowhere near hers. Lily mulled it over for ages but concluded there was no point in sticking with someone who didnt match her expectations. She wanted more and wasnt prepared to deny herself.
Fate put an older businessman in her path. He was successful, self-assured and, most importantly, unattached. Lily knew immediately not to let the chance slip. She deployed all her skillsthe smiles, the glances, the gentle touches honed over years. She switched her focus entirely, gradually edging Simon out.
The businessman was quickly smitten. Within months, they were jetting off together, leaving Simonand his modest dreamsfirmly behind.
Whod have thought hed turn things around? Lily muttered while finger-combing her sleek hair. Now hes in some big job, living in a luxury house, driving an AudiSimon! And I used to doubt him
For a moment, she stared at her reflection, her eyes flickering with something hard to definemaybe regret, maybe excitement. She didnt let herself dwell on the past for long. She had business to attend to now: to charm her ex, and quickly. Time was not on her sideyouth and beauty dont last, and she was still single, a nagging worry that pushed her to act fast.
As for the businessman, things fizzled out in the end. He kept making empty promises of marriage and lavish living, always with a new excuse. Then, one day, he bluntly said hed found someone more suited to his status. Lily remembered it vividly: cold, finaland she was left with nothing but a studio flat in Manchester and a slew of dashed illusions.
She did try to reconnect with Simon, but he was still strugglingworking in the same tedious office, still in his small flat, drinking more than he should. Lily turned up at his place on a whim but, after seeing the weariness on his face and the mess of his flat, left again without even broaching the subject. At least she had the flat in Manchestermore promising prospects, more men.
Time passed. There were many mensome generous, others demanding; some brief flings, a few longer affairsbut never marriage. Her optimism waned with every year, though she tried not to show it.
Her trip to visit family this time was meant to be routine, but the unexpected meeting with Michael had changed everything. Now she knew Simon had become a new mansuccessful, confident.
So Lily planned her next chance meeting. She calculated every detail: where their paths would cross, the outfit, the words shed say. In her mind, she pictured how Simon would immediately be drawn to her, how hed reminisce, and in the end, realise hed always loved only her. Lily had no doubt that in a few weeks, Simon would be at her feet. So certain was she, her hands tremblednot from nerves, but from the thrill of impending victory.
Oh, excuse me! Lily feigned a graceful stumble, arms flailing slightly as if shed really slipped on the pavement. Every move was rehearsed: the right lilt in her voice, a touch of fear in her eyesand, of course, Simon passing at precisely that time and place. I didnt mean to bump into you
Its nothing, happens to everyone, Simon smiled kindly, instinctively reaching out to steady her.
If it werent for you, Id have landed flat! Wait Simon? Is it really you? Lily acted as though shed only just recognised him, even though she knew exactly where hed be at that hour.
Simons brow furrowed as he stared at her face, needing only a split second to recognise her. Lily The woman hed once loved more than anyone, who had filled his every thought long after she left.
Yes, his voice caught, barely audible. He coughed awkwardly to compose himself and asked, Lily, is that really you? Or am I seeing things?
Yes. I honestly didnt think youd recognise me. Its been so long Lily lowered her eyes, projecting a fragile uncertainty.
I could never forget you, Simon blurted out, unintentionally drawing glances from passers-byincluding a few of his colleagues from work. But he was oblivious; all his attention was fixed on Lily. You havent changed a bit if anything, youre even more beautiful!
Thats lovely to hear, inwardly triumphant, Lily kept her outward expression to a demure smile tinged with shyness. Maybe we could sit down, catch up for old times sake?
And your husband? Wont he be jealous? Simon asked almost absent-mindedly, but she could see genuine hope in his eyes.
Im not married, Lily replied, her tone flirtatious, her gaze fleeting but measured. Never have been.
Im glad, his face broke into a wide smile, eyes suddenly sparkling. He looked almost liberated, as if a weight had been lifted. I always hoped wed have a future together
It turned out easier than shed expectedshe didnt even need two weeks. Within days, Simon filed for divorce, unmoved by his wifes and childrens pleas. Lily didnt waste time worrying about his familys feelingsfor her, what mattered was that her plan was working.
Once the property was divided, shed be mistress of that house shed recently only dreamed of. She pictured her things in his wardrobe, her make-up by the sink, her shoes at the door. His wife had no careerit was all Simons money, so by law, it was his. That was fair enough, Lily reasoned. Let Kate and the children have his old Croydon flat.
Ecstatic, Lily swept into the café, cheeks flushed and eyes gleaming. Everything was mapped out: a romantic dinner by candlelight, nostalgic memories, soft words to erase the last doubts. Then, naturally, the progression to the shared life shed always wanted. All she needed was to finalise the detailswhen Simon would be free, how to present the new couple to their friends and family.
She strode to their usual table and froze. Across from her, sitting ramrod straight, was KateSimons wife. Lily noted her appearance: a severe black dress, minimal make-up, hair in a neat ponytail. There were no tears, no disarrayjust a steely set to her jaw and an unwavering resolve in her eyes.
Hello, Lily, Kates voice was steady, emotionless, like reciting a prepared statement. I suspected youd turn up. Simon told me where youd planned to meet.
What are you doing here? I was waiting for Simon, Lily replied with forced confidence, though a crack of uncertainty slipped through.
I asked him not to come. This is a conversation for just the two of us, Kate said with a wry smile. I thought Id outline your immediate future.
Deliberately, she pulled some paperwork from her bag and laid it in tidy stacks on the table between them. On the top, Lily glimpsed land registry extracts, bank statements, contracts, all stamped and formal.
These are property deeds, bank statements, contracts. Everything you wanted to know about Simons wealth, Kate said, watching her reaction.
Lilys hand moved towards the documents, itching to see the truth for herself, but Kate placed her palm over them, stopping her.
Dont rush. Let me explain, Kate continued evenly. The house you see yourself living inbought with my inheritance. The car is registered in my name. As for Simons prestigious job He worked for my brother. And he was made redundant three days ago.
But Michael said He said Simon did all this himself! Lily gasped, unable to mask her astonishment. It was her last thread of hope.
Michael? Kate allowed herself a hint of a smile, with no malicejust bitter amusement. He knows the truth. He was curious to see how youd wriggle out of this.
Lily froze. All her visions of the mansion, the carefully planned comeback, her certainty that Simon would soon be at her beck and callit all seemed ridiculous now. Like shed been building castles in the sand that were swept away the instant she reached for them.
He still loves you, Kate went on quietly, not reproachful or angry, just resigned. Hes prepared to give up everything for you. But youwhat are you prepared to give up?
Kate stood up, left a five-pound note on the table to settle her coffee, then moved towards the exit. At the doorway, she turned.
Dont drag him through this. Or yourself, she said softly, and slipped away through the door.
Lily sat there for several minutes, frozen. Her gaze was fixed on the spot where the papers had lain, revealing the grim truth. Her mind swirled with turmoil, thoughts crashing chaotically without forming into any coherent picture.
She left the café without looking back. The wind promptly tossed her carefully styled hair into a mess, but she didnt care. She walked down the street, oblivious to passers-by, the racket of traffic, the babble of voices. Her mind hammered with a single thought, repeating itself in relentless rhythm: He has nothing. Absolutely nothing! Why would I want a man like that?
The next day, Lily bought a ticket to another city. She didnt send Simon a farewell text or call him to explain. She simply packed a suitcase, called a cab, and left London behind, along with the crumbled fantasy of a lavish life.
