I’m your husband’s wife. Ill be living with you! announced the pretty stranger.
That morning, Helen Wakefield woke up far too early. Shed had dreadful nightmares and kept waking with a start, then was roused by the howling wind battering the house. It was cold in the flat, and the weather outside had taken a biting turn. Helen peered through the frosty window and shivered. Thank goodness it was Saturday; she neednt venture out in such miserable weather. She went to make tea, donned her comfiest tracksuit for warmth, and rustled up a simple breakfast. By force of habit, she rang the hospital, once again receiving no encouraging news.
Her husband, Simon, had now been in a coma for two weeks. After a nasty fall on the icy pavement, hed ended up in intensive care. The doctors offered no assurances. Helen tried to keep her hopes alive, but each day it grew harder.
Looking out at the bleak sky as she finished her mint tea, Helen couldnt think of anything to lift her spirits.
When one of Simons mates called, Helen was actually a little relieved. Usually she kept her chats with him briefshe knew he didnt think much of herbut not today. She told him about her fears, about losing Simon. To her surprise, he assured her everything would work out, and somehow, she believed him. The heaviness in her chest eased a little.
Helen decided to do a thorough house clean; she couldnt afford to wallow in misery. Simon would return soon, she told herself, and how pleased hed be to find the new curtains up in the kitchen and everything spick and span.
Not that Helen had ever allowed chaos in her home, but she wanted everything just so.
The day raced by as she worked. Pleased with her efforts, she showered, planning for an early night, hoping to visit the hospital come morning instead of phoning, so she could hear for herself what the doctors were doing to help Simon and how long he might remain in this state.
But as she was getting ready for bed, the doorbell rang. Her heart leapt in her chestshe had a terrible feeling about this. Without thinking, she flung open the door and froze.
On the doorstep stood a stunning young woman, somewhat reminiscent of herself two decades ago. Her features were different, but there was an undeniable similarity.
Can I see Simon? the stranger demanded briskly.
And who, may I ask, are you? queried Helen, genuinely startled.
Im your husbands wife. Ill be living here with you. Fetch Simon! was the reply.
Helen blinked, half-convinced she was being pranked or the girl had the wrong address. If youre Simons wife, shouldnt you know where he is? she ventured.
Instead of answering, the girl barged past Helen and began looking around. Si? Where are you? Come on, Si!
Excuse me, what do you think youre doing? Helen protested, suspecting the young woman was a con artist trying to distract her and steal what she could. Helen quickly stood between her and the bedroom. I must ask you to leave this flat immediately, she said icily.
But the visitor simply raised an eyebrow. Didnt you hear me? I said Id be living here. Simon told me he was coming to sort the divorce a week agopromised hed kick you out and let me move in. His phones off, so Ive come as agreed, and Im not leaving until he tells me otherwise. So, where is he?
Simons not here, and he wont be for quite a while! If you dont leave by yourself, Ill phone the police, Helen threatened, barely keeping her composure.
Oh, Im so frightened, the girl responded flippantly. Go on then, call! Do you want my phone or will you use your own?
Helen started dialling the police number. Meanwhile, the audacious stranger went on: This flats Simons, isnt it? Im aware youre not even on the lease. The police wont get involved. Were both here on equal footingboth wives, though youre technically the ex, and Ill have the ring soon enough. So, if anyone should be leaving, its not me!
She stepped into the hallway, removed a lavishly expensive coat, and looked Helen straight in the eye. Which room should I have while Simons away? Or shall I choose myself?
Helen swallowed the painful lump in her throat and collapsed on the sofa in silence. The wife entered the bedroom and started pulling out Helens clothes, transferring them to the lounge. No time to hang aroundIve chosen my room. I need my sleep; got to be up early for Pilates.
Helen could scarcely utter a word. She felt utterly powerless; in any other circumstance, she would have kicked this brazen young woman onto the street, her suitcase right behind her. Now, all she could do was call Simons friend, Mark, when the girl went to run a shower.
Mark, sorry to trouble you, but I need to askhow do I get rid of her? Helens voice wavered.
Only by force, Mark replied. Want me to come over and chuck her out?
That wont help, Helen sighed. A drama queen like her could accuse us of assault. Can the police help?
Mark hesitated: Honestly, shes right. Unless youre on the lease, or Simon tells her to leave, the police wont evict her. Its all through the courts, which takes ages. When my neighbours mother died last year, her carer refused to move outsaid shed stay until the probate was done. The police wouldnt help. So, just say the word if you change your mind and Ill come.
No, Mark, I cant drag you into this. But did you ever hear anything about Simon leaving me?
Mark sounded surprised. No. But ring if you need anything, day or night.
The girl, whose name turned out to be Chloe, emerged from the shower, rummaged in the fridge, and began to help herself to food.
Oh no, you dont! objected Helen, swiftly returning the groceries. Enough of thisgo back to your room. When Simon comes home, youll be out the same day.
Well see, Chloe smirked. By the way, Im Chloe.
Whatever, Helen muttered, burying her face in her hands.
Chloe left, then promptly returned. Take a look at this, if you dont believe me. Its a video from my birthday.
She showed Helen a clip on her tablet. Helen truly didnt care to watchits easy to fake a video these days. But then she heard her husband speaking, with that gentle tone he once used only with her. Simon had his arms around Chloe, saying how happy shed made him, then draped her with the very designer coat now hanging in Helens wardrobe.
Get out, Helen whispered, slamming the door after her.
She couldnt sleep that night and wept quietly at the kitchen table, lost in memories. Helen had always believed her marriage to Simon was a happy one. They had no children, but were content together. Both had good jobs, enjoyed life, and lived in Simons flat; she let out her own, giving their finances a healthy boost. How hadnt she noticed Simons roving eye? Was Chloe the first, or just the latest? How could Simon betray her? Helen believed wholeheartedly that marriage was sacred, that any hardship should be weathered together, with mutual kindness and forgiveness.
Helens mind drifted to Mark. She recalled meeting him at her wedding, when hed presented her with a huge bouquet of white chrysanthemumsher least favourite. When Simon was called away, Mark had looked her in the eye and said, Ill always regret meeting you through Simon, not sooner. Then he handed over the flowers and left. Shed felt an electricity shed never experienced with Simon. If not for her principles, she might have run off with Mark then and therebut she told herself, Marriage is for life. End of story. Shed even grown fond of chrysanthemums.
After the wedding, theyd met a couple more times. Marks intense gaze had set off inner fireworks, but then hed left the country for work. Only recently had he returnedsingle, settled outside town, and had invited Simon and her over. Just seeing Mark again had reignited those old feelings. Shed avoided his company, not allowing herself to even consider another man, however much she might want to. Yet Simon, it turned out, discarded their values easily enough.
At dawn, a doorbell jolted her from reverie. Chloe dashed for the door, calling, Its for me, breakfast delivery!
She collected her food and took over the kitchen as if shed lived there all her life. Helen had to grit her teeth to keep from throwing her out.
The phone rangit was the hospital. Simon had woken up. Helen forgot all about infidelity and the rival now sharing her space; she was suddenly overwhelmed and tearful.
How is he? Yes, Ill come right away. Is there anything I should bring? Yes, of course.
Who was it? Chloe enquired, as if Helen owed her an update.
Arent you off to Pilates? snapped Helen. Chop, chop, I need to leave.
You can go. Just leave your keys and were sorted.
Shall I leave you my bank card and PIN as well? Helen shot back, unable to hold her tongue.
No need, Simon sorted my card out already, Chloe replied with a smug grin.
Helen dropped the matter. She just wanted to see Simon, to confirm with her own eyes that he was conscious. Discussing Chloe would have to wait until he was fully recovered. Before leaving, she activated the discreet security cameras they normally used for holidays.
She wasnt allowed in to see Simon just yethe was still in intensive care. The doctor explained the crisis had passed, but Simon would need plenty of rest, and careeven simple movement would be difficult at first. They advised Helen to find a private nurse, or do it herself if possible.
When Helen returned, Chloe was strutting about the flat, inspecting cupboards, evidently imagining how shed rearrange things to her own taste. Helen couldnt help but notice that Chloe was even cleaning up after herselfa clear sign she saw herself as mistress of the house.
Helen decided to cut to the chase. Tell me, Chloewhy Simon? Hes much older, and he cant have children.
We love each other, Chloe replied coolly.
So youre willing to see him through thick and thin? Helens tone was tinged with sarcasm.
Of course! Chloe insisted ardently, Just let him go, stop making him feel guilty. You know he never wanted to hurt youhe just couldnt say it.
Im not stopping him, Chloe. If what you say is true, and Simon confirms, so be it. Meanwhile, as youre now calling yourself his wife, you can take your responsibilities seriously. He needs looking after.
Chloe paled. Will he always be like this? The bravado had left her voice.
No need to fretits temporary. But youre the real wife now, so off you go. Ive arranged a private room in the hospital for the two of you. When our Casanovas on his feet again, well talk further.
Chloe straightened her shoulders and nodded. Of courseI wont abandon Si.
The way she called him Si made Helens skin crawl. She went to bed, exhausted beyond words.
Next morning, Chloe was up at the crack of dawn, putting on make-up as if for a pageant, not a sickroom. She changed outfits several times. Helen watched her with disbeliefcould this really be her life?
Mark rang, but Helen didnt want to answer. She was afraid; perhaps this was her moment to break free from the tenets that had governed her life for years. But she finally picked up.
Morning, Helenits Mark. Any news? Hows Simon? Oh, thank heavens! Listen, would… would it be all right if I called on you one day at the hospital?
I think its best to leave it for now, Mark.
All right. And has your guest departed? I didnt want to keep bothering you.
Everythings fine, Mark. Sorry, Im running late for work.
Of course. If you need me, Im here, Mark said gently.
Helen ended the call and leaned against the doorframe, drawing a deep breath.
At work, she realised just how tired she was. Shed meant to take some unpaid leave when Simon came around, to be close to him. Now, with someone else beside him, she finally thought about her own needsa chance to get her head straight, maybe even rest.
She handed in her request, left the office, and wandered through the snow-dusted streets. When her phone rang again, she ignored it. But seeing Simon flash on the screen as she ducked into a coffee shop, she answered.
Helen, love his voice was shakyI know you know, and I… Helen, Im so sorry. Its just
Simon, you dont have to say anything. Its clear. Dont waste time; your wife Helen put heavy emphasis on the wordwill be jealous.
Chloes popped outdont call her my wife, Simon pleaded.
Goodbye, Simon. Dont call again.
Helen hung up and told herself, Thats it, Helen Wakefield. At forty, youre single once more!
Shed lost her taste for coffee. Helen resolved to pack up and move back into her own flata new beginning. But tenants were there for another three months, so shed have to rent a place for now unless she was willing to let Chloe take full command here.
No sooner had Helen started to pack than there was a fierce thumping at her door. It was strangethe doorbell still worked.
She opened the door and was nearly bowled over by an irate Chloe, who snatched up her handbag and ranted, Why didnt you tell me hell never walk again? Were you just after some free nurse? You can both rot together!
What are you talking about? Who told you that?
The doctor! Dont play innocent. Im not changing anyones nappies, thank you!
Helen was stunnedthered been no mention of anything like that. Simon just needed looking after for a while, someone to support him, that was all. Part of her wanted to say: What about in sickness and in health? But instead she just shut the door, threw on her coat, and dashed to the hospital.
She found the doctor, who grinned. That young madam gave you a fright? Sorry, couldnt help myself. She claimed to be Simons wife, so I put her to the testa little exaggeration here and there. She legged it straight away, didnt pass the test, you might say.
Then Ill stay, Helen sighed with relief.
Of course. And your husband is quite baffled by the disappearance of his carer!
When Simon saw Helen, he tried to sit up. Helen, Im so glad you came. Please dont be angry with me about Chloe. I was stupid. She just reminded me of you in our early daysthats why I was drawn to her.
Lets not discuss the details. You betrayed me, full stop. I dont know if I can forgive you. And by the way, Chloe flunked your little test at the first hurdle.
Im not surprised, Simon admitted. In fact, I was amazed she even showed up here.
I wont abandon you while youre in this state, so lets never mention Chloe again.
Simon pressed her hands to his lips gratefully. Youre the only woman whos ever truly mattered to me, Helen. I owe you everything.
And Helen stayed. She cared for Simon, practically living at his bedside, and soon he was discharged. Mark visited a couple of times, dropping off flowers and cheerful conversation, but Helen kept her distance.
One evening, forgetting her mobile in the kitchen, she overheard Mark talking to Simon: How could you? Shes a one-in-a-million womangenuine, loyal, forgiving. I was married once too, and I know. My wife never lifted a finger at home, but your Helenshes built a real home, and you… Oh, Id treat her like royalty if I were you!
Youre not me, Mark, Simon retorted, his pride stung. Listen, I know Ive made a hash of things. I get it. The only person who cares is Helen, so lets drop it.
A fortnight later, the doorbell rang late at night. Simon opened the door. There stood Chloe.
Si, Ive been told youre better, even back at work. So Ive come back to you. Did you miss me?
You took your time fetching that glass of water, Simon answered dryly. But Im afraid its too late now. He tried to close the door, but Chloe wedged her foot in.
I just found out Im pregnant, Si. I didnt know what to do at first, but Im sure I can manage. Will you let me in? Ive nowhere else to goI got turfed out of my flat when you didnt renew the rental.
Youre mistaken, Chloe. I cant have children, Simon replied coldly.
You must be able toI am! Clearly, it was Helen whos barren, Chloe responded slyly.
Helen was with me every day here. Please speak respectfully about her. Ill get checked tomorrow. If youre lying, youll regret it.
Why would I lie? Chloe pouted, heading to the kitchen as if she belonged.
Simon found Helen waiting in the bedroom, having overheard everything. Helen, let her stay tonight, please. Ill get everything clarified first thing tomorrow, and then shell be gone. But what ifwell, you know how much I wanted children.
Helen turned away. Go. I want to sleep.
After a night spent crying, Helen decided she couldnt endure it any longer, but had nowhere to gonot until her flat was available. At dawn, Simon burst in.
Helen, Ive got the results. Chloes pregnant, its true. Turns out, I can be a father. Just thinkafter all these years!
And Im supposed to congratulate you? she said flatly.
No, I wanted to saylook, your flats still let out. Perhaps, since its crowded, you could… stay with us, for now, Simon fumbled.
Do you hear yourself? Stay with you two? Are you mad? Helen exclaimed. She flung her things into some bags, determined to get outshed find a hotel for now.
Downstairs, she bumped into Mark, concern etched across his face.
Am I in time? he gasped. Simon rang mecouldnt contain his happiness. I didnt stop to congratulate him. My thoughts were with you. Will you come to mine, Helen? Get away from it all. I swear, I wont interfere. I just cant leave you on your own. You mean far too much to me.
Helen nodded mutely, wordlessly entrusting Mark with her bags.
He kept his promise, giving her space. Only when she had finally come to terms with the situation, letting go of the past, did Mark confess that hed fallen for her at that wedding all those years ago.
A year later, Helen could barely contain her excitement as she waited for Mark to wake. Meeting him with a mysterious smile, she handed him a stick showing two lines. Mark stared in confusion before lifting her off her feet, twirling her around in joyuntil the phone rang.
Ill be quick, Helen promised.
Helen? Its Simon, came the familar voice. How are you?
Fantastic! Helen replied.
Ive been looking for youyour flats still let, and they said at work youd resigned. Have you gone away?
Yes, to start a new life, Helen said, eager to end the call. But she heard herself ask, And you?
Im struggling, HelenChloes left. Im alone with my son. I just I regret everything that happened. I was thinking, maybe we could try again, for old times sake, raise our son together. We were happy once, werent we?
Im happier than Ive ever been, Simon. And you made your choice. The only help I can offer is recommending a brilliant nanny. Ill text the number. Goodbye, Simon.
As Helen returned to the kitchen, Mark asked, Who was that?
A ghost from my past, Helen replied with a smile, and he wont haunt me anymore.
Sometimes, lifes storms sweep away what you thought you couldnt live withoutonly to reveal that your true happiness was waiting just around the corner.
