COINCIDENCES ARENT COINCIDENTAL
Matthew was driving home toward the outskirts of town at a gentle pace. Hed been a cabbie for over twelve hours straight, and he was tirednot just of sitting and turning the wheel, but emotionally drained from dealing with passengers. All sorts turned up during a shift: all manner of eccentrics, each with stories to tell. There was love, heartbreak, tales both hilarious and deeply sad.
Almost home, Matthew noticed a young woman by the kerb, flagging for a lift. She had a large suitcase with her. Truth be told, he really didnt fancy picking anyone else up, but leaving her stranded at the roadside in the dead of night felt wrong. She opened the door and asked hesitantly,
Could you drive me to the village?
It was a good hour past his housea right bother, reallyand hed prefer not to, but the pleading look in her eyes softened him. He nodded.
Oh, thank you so much! Youve no idea how grateful I am. Honestly, I was nervous about even flagging someone down this late.
How did you end up out here at this hour? Matthew asked.
Well, its a bit of a muddle, really. Id been sharing a flat with a friend, but last week I lost my jobturned down the restaurant owners advances, so he sacked me and didnt pay me for nearly a months work. Ive had no money since. Been job hunting all week with no luck. Rent was due today, and my flatmate said she wasnt going to support meshed already found a new lodger, so I had to pack up and leave before the new girl arrived. Can you believe it? After nearly three years of friendship, I never realised how mercenary she was.
Thats a tough situation, Matthew sympathised. So whos in the village for you?
My brother and his family, she said with a sigh. Ill stay with them for now. Although, honestly, his wife cant stand me. Never liked guests, and especially not me. When my parents visited for their first grandchild, she tried to drive them away by the third day. Theyve never been back. Shes terribly stingy as wellwhen I stayed with them three years ago, I barely ate for a week.
How do you mean? he asked, surprised.
Shed sit across the table glaring at me while we ate. Id be so uncomfortable, I could barely get a bite down. Ended up living off bread and water, really. Survived it, though.
So why go back? Matthew asked.
Ive nowhere else left, she replied quietly. My parents are in the north, in Cumbria. I came down to start university, flunked my entrance exams, worked for a year to save up, and got in by correspondence. Im just in my first year now, juggling work and study, but now Im desperate for another job. Her voice broke, and tears started to fall. I just cant seem to catch a breakif its not one setback, its another.
Matthew studied her quietly as she spoke; it was clear she spoke from the heart. She was not only attractive, but her honesty and naivety shone through; she had a good soul. Years as a cabbie had taught him to spot genuine people. The sort youd want to marry, whod make a wonderful wife and mother.
Suddenly, Matthew pulled the car over. The girl tensed up, eyeing him warily.
Please, dont worry, she stammered. Ive got fifty pounds leftIll pay you, I wont ask for a free ride.
Dont be afraid, Ive no intention of hurting you, Matthew said gently. Ive a proposition, if youd like to hear me out? She nodded. If you dont like it, Ill take you straight to your brothers. She nodded again.
Well, here it is. I live alone, work as a cab driver. My mum passed away last year, so Ive a spare roomher room, actually. If youre willing to help out with the cooking and cleaning instead of paying rent, youre welcome to stay and study as long as you need. I promise, I wont bother you or make advancesIm not that kind of bloke.
He was startled to see her crying again.
No pressureif you dont want to, thats fine. I just thought
No, I mean, yes, of course I would! Sorry, Im just overwhelmed. I honestly never imagined something so wonderful could happen to me. Meeting you tonight feels almost miraculous.
Splendid, Matthew chuckled. Lets get you home then. Im Matthew, by the way.
Im Emily.
Thats a lovely, warm name.
Back at his house, he showed her the spare room. It was cosy, decorated with a womans touch.
I havent changed anything since Mum died, Matthew explained. Feel free to make it your own.
Its lovely, so homely. Your mum had excellent taste.
She was a lecturer at the architecture schooltaught there until retirement. Make yourself comfortable. Ill pop the kettle on and put some water on for some dumplings.
Matthew, mind if I whip up something quick? My mum taught me to cook.
Thats brilliant, but honestly, all Ive got in the fridge tonight is dumplings. Tomorrow, well do a proper shop, and then you can spoil me with your cooking, right, Chef Emily?
Yes, Captain. But tonight, Ill still cook the dumplings.
Youve convinced me.
They sat in the kitchen over steaming bowls of dumplings. Matthew regaled her with tales from his Navy days, tossing in a few jokes. Emilys laughter rang out, bright and genuine. Watching her, Matthew was pleased hed trusted his instincts about her. He thought, give it a month or two and, if she proved herself, perhaps hed ask her to stay for good, as his wife. After all, like the wise old tortoise once saidcoincidences arent coincidental.
