At the outset, it struck me as peculiar that Charlotte invited me to her home. She was always furious whenever I wanted to visit her with my son; she never wanted me to drop by for holidays either.
My flats tiny, theres just no space, she’d insist, striding through three roomy lounges shed received after her divorce.
The area Charlotte lived in with her two children was quiet and comfortable. The house faced a school, there was a swimming pool nearby, a lovely park and a small woodland, with every form of transport imaginable at hand. All told, there was absolutely nothing to complain about.
Charlotte beamed with delight, sitting at the kitchen table with me and Mum. Ive finally decided to start some refurbishments. I want to sand down those dreadful wooden floors and change a few bits of furniture. It sounds so easy and straightforward, but the reality is it takes so much time and money. I need to hire a team, but Im a bit short on funds. Youre my sister, couldnt you help me?
I met her request with scepticism at once. There was no urgent rush; nothing was started, and renovations could be handled bit by bit. This month, buy wallpaper and paste for one room, the furniture too, and gradually room by room.
We havent got that much ourselves, I said, hoping the matter would be settled. I know how much your husband earns, Charlotte shot back, Youre always helping his family.
To my surprise, Mum sided with my sister. She said shed speak to Dad and theyd give Charlotte a portion of their savings, then began urging me to support my sister.
Help your sister. You know its not easy for her raising the children on her own. At this rate, shell never get the flat fixed up. If we dont help, everything will fall apart. So, how much were you thinking of lending?
Charlottes eyes widened in astonishment.
Lend? she repeated, I cant pay you back. Im asking you to give me what you can. So we can have Christmas here. And you could come round more often.
I already pictured myself visiting, being warmly received.
Ill think about it, I replied evasively.
Back home, I relayed the whole tale to my husband, and he too was taken aback by Charlottes cheekiness. Were not a charity, handing out pounds for nothing.
Weve decided not to give anything, and now were wondering how to tell Charlotte gently, without offending her, and to put this money business to bed for good.
