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Mike Anna Charlotte sat across from her husband, who was deeply engrossed in The Fishermans Chronicle, nervously drumming her fingers on the table. Michael tilted the newspaper slightly, then retreated behind its crisp, inky pages againon which a burly fisherman in a flat cap and big woolly beard peered out at Anna. Mike! she called again, a little louder.
Hmm? Whats that? Michael started, raising his eyebrows to peer at his wife over his glasses. Lunch time? Ill be there in a moment, just need to finish this bit. Such a delightful story about pike! These blokes are such characters, honestly
Mi-chael! Lunch isnt ready, what does that even have to do with anything? Anna snapped her shoulders impatiently and threw up her hands.
Then whats the matter? Its the perfect time for eating, Michael shook out his paper and nodded at the elegant wooden clock with its brass hands hanging opposite his armchair. Theyd bought it secondhand when they moved into the new flat on Richmond Avenuewell, not brand new, but spacious, high ceilings and a balcony, pleasant neighbours, and an honest-to-goodness palm tree in a massive pot. Huge windows, so much room you felt you could ski indoors. The only issue was, there was no furniture. Anna had sorted all that, shopped, designed the interiors, and created a little nest for them.
At last, we can truly live! she endlessly praised the flat. So bright and spacious! We finally made it, Mike, we finally did!
When it came to furnishing the place, Michael was laid up in hospital, recovering from fractures, only hearing reports that there were now new chairs, a dining table, shelves, a chest of drawers, and those wall units he never selected. Anna handled it all herself, even bringing sketches to his bed and sending shop photos to his phone.
And whos that there beside you?! Michael roared into the phone when Anna sent him a picture of her idea for their new marital bed: massive, king-size, covered with a plush cream blanket, with gold-tasselled cushions and towels twisted into swans, flanked by bedside tables and candlestickssumptuously fancy. There sat Anna, demure as ever, smoothing out her long, nun-style skirt (as Mike called it), her gaze lowered, and right beside her (the nerve!) stood a ruggedly handsome fellow, grinning from ear to ear, as if delighting in his victory over poor, injured Michael tucked up in his hospital bed with his leg in plaster up to his waist. All thanks to Michael James climbing up onto the shed roof at their allotmentjust to rescue a fluffy, smoky-grey kitten with wide blue eyes the roof gave way, Michael tumbled, and the kitten, squeaking pitifully, leapt to a neighbouring tree.
In the end? Michael the rescuer got a nasty compound fracture and a handful of complications, while the kitten, now named Dotty, installed herself in Annas sitting room. Poor little darling, how frightened! Anna would wail, petting their beloved.
You care more for that creature than for me! her husband protested. Im in bits, and that that
Hes defenceless and needs caring for, Mike. You too, but not quite as much. Anna would say briskly, tucking a napkin under her husbands chin. Eat your soup, every drop!
Now, Dotty was joined in Annas affections by that brawny shop assistant, who stood there beaming in the photo.
Who is that?! Tell him to get his hands off you! Michael would shout down the phone, his fellow patients in stitches. Anna, its unbearable!
Michael, its only to show you the beds size for perspective, Anna trilled, almost flustered. Imagine its you, not him. What do you think, will it suit? I can lie down too if you like she offered over the video call. If youd rather I didnt, just say. Michael How are you, darling? Ill be over this evening with some chops
Oh, keep your chops! he grumbled, trying to ease his aching leg. Buy the bed, but Im not paying for the assistant
From there, the furniture came in: bed, tables, bath with chrome legs, armchairs, sofathe flat filling up just as Michaels bristles did.
Lastly, the clock. By then, Michael was home, hobbling about with a stick beside his wife.
Theyll count the minutes we spend together, Anna sighed, clutching the box. Just you and me. Growing old beneath their ticking, together, forever Her eyes searched Michaels for a spark of romance.
He nodded, paid the shopkeeper, and Anna, on the way out, kissed him passionately and whispered that he was the very best of men.
Are we eating today or not? Michael finally asked, folding the Fishermans Chronicle.
Oh, darling! Not now, not now Somethings happened Anna began wringing her hands and sighing. I can feel it. She our granddaughter, she called, she sounded so strange, you know?
Annas shoulders drooped, a moan coming from deep inside her.
Whats happened? Whats with the melodrama? What? Is it about Sophie? What is it? Michael tensed, but Anna only shook her hands anxiously.
I dont know. Stop shouting when I know nothing myself! She called, shes coming. She said, Gran, Ill pop in Thats what she said
So what? Michael shrugged. Our granddaughters visiting, thats all.
No, you dont get it! Anna replied, hands flapping. You never pick up on the nuances, the shades of meaning Youre like a rough old dining bench, only ever creaking
I beg your pardon! her husband snapped, wounded. Aches and old work injuries are no excuse to insult me! Just tell it straight! His beloved fishy magazine now balled up in his fist.
But Anna couldnt tell it straight. She was, as Michael put it, in character againwracked with motherly worry, as if she were some modern Mrs. Fairfax pining for her mischievous Sophie: what might she be up to, had she written some new limericks, was she wearing her scarf in the cold, going for walks past the riverbank
Except Annas worry was not for some fictional Sashka, but for twenty-six-year-old Sophie, a whirlwind of a granddaughter, an orphan, all springs and mischief, who chattered away in three languages and, in spare moments, cross-stitched portraits of British icons. The languages came in handy at her law firm job, the embroidery was gifted to friends and family.
Ever since she was little, Sophie would dash about, poking her nose into everything, never sitting still a moment.
Sit! Calm down! Collect yourself! Will you ever let yourself rest?! everyone would scold, as Sophie sped about yet again.
She hurries to live, she hurries to feel! Michael said about her, somewhat proud, while listening to the latest teachers complaint.
Your child needs an assessment! Lessons are impossible with her flitting about. For a girl, composure is everything! her form tutor lamented.
But Sophie had plenty of focus and diligence, and read voraciouslyonly all about pirates, treasure, explorers, and sea monsters. Maybe the schooling system wasnt right for her, or perhaps Michael had spoiled her, but Sophie could be a handful for any teacher.
Anna worried constantly, entering parents evenings as if they were trips to the gallows, always ready to plead forgiveness on Sophies behalf. The scoldings went on until Year Eleven. Then, without warning, Sophie became a champion at English Olympiad, then at another. The school got a reputation, Sophie was suddenly respected, and that excess energy was channelledshe started a volunteer English club for the littlest ones: Sophie & Co.
After school, she got into university, and chattered away in foreign tongues on the phone, which drove Anna wild because she knew only English and a few words of school French.
In her fifth year, Sophie unexpectedly announced she was getting married. Anna, with her delicate soul, dropped her plate, nearly faintedsurely her granddaughter was marrying a foreigner and would abandon them forever
Oh darling Anna groaned, grasping her husband for support. Who is he? All so sudden
Not sudden at all, mum. We just kept quiet. Hes Ben from postgraduate, lovely chap, youll love him!
Benjamin came round asking for Sophies hand two days later. Anna opened the door and found a strikingly handsome young man on the doorstep, holding a bouquet of white freesias. He grinned, and from behind his shoulder peeked Sophie.
While Anna gaped and muttered, “How will I cope without her now?”, Michael invited the young man in, offering him a hearty handshake and gauging his grip, then waved them to the table.
Ben, out of curiosity, how do you feel about fishing? Michael probed.
Love it, Ben replied politely.
Fly rod or bottom rig? Michael pressed his test further.
Fly. But I respect bottom rig: my mum roasts a splendid carp, pure heaven!
Well get on then, Michael nodded.
He was rightthey did. The wedding was thrown, the youngsters moved into Anna and Michaels old place, and the pair set up in their new flat.
No honeymoonSophie had finals, then the couple threw themselves fully into their careers.
You need a break, darling, Anna would whisper anxiously on the phone, eyeing the shadows under Sophies eyes. Thats not good for a woman, you know Are you ill?
Again Annas face flooded with dread, sensing inevitable disaster.
Oh, Anna, for goodness sake! Give the young ones spacetheyll find their way! Michael would huff, tired of his wifes endless worrying.
Sophies silence meant trouble. If she did call, but was vagueit meant trouble. If Ben called about the allotmentwhy? If he didntand didnt offer to help for summershifted meaning: he didnt care for Anna Charlotte, she must be a rotten relation
I have a bad feeling, Michael about Sophie, Anna muttered, standing up and heading to the kitchen. She knew Michael would follow, no need to yell into the other room. She said it just like that Ill come over
Drop it, Anna. Stirring up drama again. She probably just misses us, wants to see her granddad, perfectly normal! Michael said, laying out spoons on the tablecloth.
Her granddad? There you go again, Mike Always about yourself. All men are the same.
Anna shivered, as if pricked in the heart. She stopped, widened her eyes and whispered:
Bens left her. She just hasnt said yet, not to alarm us but he’s gone. I knew it from the start, he wasnt right for her. Seemed okay, but there was something strange in his eyes Anna fumbled for the right word in the air, before Michael nudged a loaf and knife towards her. Cut the bread, love.
His eyes are just fine. Hes a good lad, and you think too much, Anna. Let’s have lunch, Michael snapped.
Oh, youre so heartless, Mike! Anna began ladling out soup, slowly eating.
They ate in silence, not even the telly was on. Anna hated having it on when there was trouble in the house.
Well then Well have to give her our bedroom, Mike. No, Ive decidedafter I clear these plates, well move our things to the lounge. Its inconvenient, but shell need somewhere to cry. Why should she sit alone in their cold, empty flat? Never mind, Ill support her. Shes delicate, sensitive, my poor little girl Shell cry, Ill console her. I need to buy some wine! Anna suddenly croaked, coughing from emotion. Michael, almost dozing off, dropped his spoon in surprise.
Never drink your sorrows away, Anna! Thats how you end up a drunk! he barked.
Dont you yell at me! When a familys in crisis, when a womans heart breaks, whats wrong with you! Anna corrected him, then suddenly straightened as if electrified, and whispered:
No. Shes found out he cheated, and wants my advice. Do I forgive, or do I send him packing? Oh my poor, sweet girl, how could he treat you so harshly
Some weepy song played on the radio; Anna nodded in mournful rhythm.
Is there a main course then? Michael asked grumpily. Oi, love! Main course?
Its on the hob. Though Ive no appetite Im so worried Anna said, quickly gulping down the rest of her pea and ham soup and peering over her husbands shoulder into the frying pan.
If youve no appetite, Sophie and I will have bigger helpings later, Michael said, grabbing a fat meatball and pouring on gravy. Go on then! Hand over your plate! Anna obediently pushed it towards him. Chips enough, or more?
Oh never mind the chips Yes, one more spoonful, thank you. Would you like a gherkin? she offered the bowl to him. You know she rarely comes here. Im used to it. For her to just pop over mid-week Do you think Im overthinking?
Michael crunched his gherkin (how like a horse eating an apple, she always thought).
I think, he said, enjoying his fried potatoes, you need a hobby. Read about fish! Theres this thing about
Michaels eyes sparkled, cheeks flushed, but Anna only waved him quiet.
Oh stop, Mike! Just stop. No fish stories now Ive got it! Ben fell in with a bad crowdsaid he was a go-getter, didnt I. Under investigation, and Sophie isnt sure if she should divorce him now or wait. Would you have divorced me if Id been a spy? Anna demanded.
Michael almost choked and had to gulp down water.
Dont be ridiculous, Mata Hari! Enough of your daft questions! he snapped.
Yes so much for love. For better, for worse, in sickness and health Men! Anna threw down her napkin.
In sickness, indeed, Michael sighed, circling his finger at his temple.
Our little Sophie will be a political exiles wife Oh, why is her fate so difficult! Theres someone at the door Ill go!
Anna hurried to the entryway and flung open the door.
Annie! Hello! Brought some pies over for you. Of course you want them! crowed their plump, rosy-cheeked neighbour, Julia Victoria. Careful! Theyre hot! Wheres Mike? Offer him pies whilst theyre fresh! Have you picked up your pension? I drew mine yesterday but spent the lot Oh, Annawhats wrong, you look awful!
My face is still attached, dont fuss, just come in! Michael joined her, greeting the guest. Keeping us fed, good woman. But Julia
What? Julia whispered conspiratorially, sidling up to Michael.
Better be careful with us, Michael nodded towards his wife. Our Annas a spy now, keeps urging me to divorce her.
Oh Michael, you joker! All right, spill, whats really up? My potatoes need watching. Julia perched on a hallway stool, stretching out her legs in pink slippers and adjusting her apron.
Sophies coming to visit, Anna shrugged helplessly.
And?
Well, she rang out of the blue, you seeshe hasnt been here in six months, barely calls at all. If only her parents were still Anna sniffed, dabbing her eyes. Ive not protected her, Julia, I can tell somethings wrong
Oh dear Well, why not come round to mine, then? Ill put a pie on, Mike, you coming? Will Sophie be alone, or with her husband? Oh, Ive got a bottle of my new tipple, its smashing!
Julia made her own fruit wines and always had something tasty on offer; her table was always groaning.
Well, you coming? she clapped Michael on the shoulder.
He only shook his head, doubtful.
Doubt it. Were in the depths of despair here, thank you, Julia. Take your pies and gotherell be tears and lamentations and the like. Sophie doesnt just visit for nothing
Well, pass on my regards Julia Victoria left, and Anna, now sat on the still-warm stool, nibbled a pie.
She oversalts them, always tastes odd, Anna grimaced.
Theyre lovely. Youre just jealous. Now, lets have some tea. Ill do the dishes, you pack up our things, Michael said, rummaging in the coat rack.
What for? Anna asked, listlessly.
Youll be moving in with Sophie, like a faithful old nanny! Bringing your skis?
Michael!
He chuckled and whistled a merry tune, popping the kettle on. Sophie was coming! Dear, silly dragonfly Sophie! Michael James hadnt realized just how much he missed her until now!
Sophie appeared around seven, ringing the bell.
Gran! Hello! Here comes your prodigal granddaughter! She thrust shopping bags into Annas arms. Just let me freshen up, then Ill help, Im starving for salad! Wheres Granddad?
Anna nodded towards the sitting room.
In there. Sophie she began, but Sophie was off, bounding in to see Michael.
In the kitchen, Sophie quickly sliced cucumber, tossing neat pieces into a bowl as she chatted about work.
How are you both? Any news? The shops shut, I had to walk to the next street Oh, and did you hear what happened at ours?!
How would we! Anna interrupted, Youre a shadow, Sophie, probably forgotten where we live! Sophie!
Gran, thats unfair. I do remember, theres just so much on. Ive started classes after work, home at ten every night Sophie waved her off.
Michael drummed his fingers on the table, hinting that Sophie had become a secret agent. Anna gasped and waved her arms, visibly paling.
So, what are these classes, darling? Anna asked, testing gently.
Bits and bobs. Never mind. Can I have another piece? Sophie reached for the sausage plate. Why so jittery?
Its nothing, Anna mopped up crumbs. Eat up. Julia Victoria dropped off pies Help yourself Wheres Ben then?
Where do you think? Sophie replied. Under house arrest.
What? Anna dropped her pie right onto Michaels knees.
Just fluhes off sick. Needs some lemon. I forgotand do you have any honey? Why are there skis in the hallwayheaded on holiday?
No, Grans decluttering, ignore her, Michael said. Hows work?
All fine. Shall I put the kettle on?
Sophie darted to the stove, hummed quietly as she filled the kettle, then announced she’d go play with Dotty, the little gray kitten.
Anna exchanged a glance with Michaelshes hiding something, surely! She seems well, but avoids their eyes…
On the radio, Anna Karenina was playing, the tales tragic end approaching. Anna froze, listening to the intense narrator.
Oh, Mike, why is she silent? Why torment me so? Anna whispered.
Go on, then, Ill find out. Michael nodded and headed off, leaving Anna with the tragic fade of Kareninas fate.
Soph! Michael patted the sofa beside him. Come here.
Sophie pried herself away from Dotty, adjusted her earrings, and sat down.
What is it, Granddad? Reading about fish againbig pike, was it? Can I sit with you a bit?
I was. Good read, isnt it? Well go fishing, you and me. Got you a new rod
We will, Granddad, once I get things sorted at work She snuggled under Annas cardigan.
Soph
What?
Something up with you? Trouble with Ben? Dont fret, darling, these things happen, couples argue, it blows over Michael stroked her hair, Sophie nestling in, smiling. Or is it something elseillness maybe? Tell us, well work it out together. Thats what family is for, to grab you by the hand if you fall through the ice. You trust me, dont you?
I do, Granddad. I just need to nap here a bit, is that alright? Im tired You and Gran are the best, really. It smells of raspberry jam And well go fishing soon I just missed home and wanted to see you, thats all
Her voice faded as she drifted off, head resting warmly against his stomach.
Well?! Anna demanded in a fierce whisper. Did she say? Divorce? Sacked? Bens a swindler? Tell me!
Oh, enough, you gossip! Sophie just came home, thats allmissed us, wanted a squeeze from her Granddad. And you start preparing for disaster! Goodness, my heart! Off you go, Annatake your drops!
Julia Victoria poked her head in with a decanter of pale pink liquid.
So? Is it all tragic? she hissed, eyeing Sophies shoes in the hallway. Do tell!
Anna Charlotte straightened up, chin high, smoothing her neat hair bun, adjusting her cardigan, and thrusting forward a foot in a threadbare slipper.
Were all well! Nothing to get worked up over! People imagine all sorts, fret about nonsense! The childs only come home for a visit, full stop! And take that homemade booze of yours awayno need for that here!
She thrust the decanter and pie dish back at the neighbour, and opened the door.
Julia Victoria disappeared, and in the kitchen, the radio gave Anna Kareninas doom.
Anna Charlotte briskly pulled the plugsilencing the drama.
It’s a holiday for usour granddaughters home! Who needs those gloomy tales on a happy day? she scolded the radio and started pouring out tea.
Some people! she thought, grumpy. They turn a molehill into a mountain, driving themselves and everyone else mad! Nothing better to do!
Mike, Soph, come for some cake! And chocolates! she called, knocking the teapot triumphantly on the hob. Whats there to be shy about, for heavens sake? Its a celebration!
**
And as the family basked in the warm, ordinary comfort of being together, Anna realised sometimes we create our own storms out of fear. But when we stop worrying about what could go wrong, we find joy in what is right in front of us. In the end, home isnt just a place, but the people you share it with, and the love that lives in small, everyday moments.
