Is that your sister in the photo? No, my wife. You must be joking! Thats my nephews wife.
I was buried under a mountain of paperwork when Lucy, my assistant, burst into the office, out of breath.
Mr. Charles, theres a lady whos been trying to see you. Ive run out of ways to explain youre too busy, she huffed.
Who is it, what does she want, whats so urgent? I asked, forcing a smile as I tried to focus on the report in front of me.
If only I knew. She insists its a personal matter and cant wait.
If its both personal and urgent, I suppose I have to make time, dont I? I said, shrugging. Ive always found it hard to turn away people in need, so over the years, folks have come to me with all sorts of problems. Lucy did her best to shield me from unnecessary interruptionssometimes shed solve matters herself, sometimes, gently redirect. She was the only one who knew how tough this business had been for me. Wed started the company from nothing, pulling all-nighters in this very office. Shed dash home just to throw together a meal and return with a homemade supper for me. Her support was invaluable, and over time she became indispensablemy right hand, truthfully. I used to worry what would happen if she ever married and took maternity leave; Id be lost without her. I never wanted to share the inner workings with anyone elsethere were already too many copycats once things started looking up. Thats always the way: most people walk straight past opportunity, but as soon as someone stops and builds something worthwhile, suddenly theres a crowd at the door. Ideas are much the same. Too scared to begin themselves, but once they see a hint of success, everyone jumps in. Half the time, the latecomers manage to pull ahead. This was why, to stay on top, I tried to handle the most critical matters myselfor with Lucy, whom I trusted completely.
Lucy ushered in the visitor and quietly stepped out. I looked up and rose to my feet in surprise when I saw the woman in black.
Mrs. Dawson? To what do I owe this visit?
I quickly came around the desk and offered her a seat at the meeting table, sitting across from her.
My Lilys gone, she said, her voice lifeless as she bowed her head.
I loosened my tie and wiped sweat from my brow. My past flashed in fragments before my eyes.
Lily was my first love. We met in our first year at university. I remember noticing her straight awaya striking girl with fair hair braided down her back. Not long after, she failed her first exams, and I offered to helpshe accepted. We studied together, and she often used to joke that if I were the professor, everyone would pass with flying colors because I explained everything so simply. Thanks to our sessions, Lily passed too.
We kept spending time together, and by the final year, everyone expected wed end up married. Even my parents began quietly preparingthe old man took extra jobs, my mum took in sewing, just to save up for the big day. Lilys mother always said shed love to be a granny soon. But Lily and I never discussed marriage in earnest. Id always dreamed of starting my own business, building something useful and profitable, to make life better for everyone. But as graduation approached, I started thinking perhaps it was time to make it official. Sneaking off to see Lily in the evenings while Mrs. Dawson was at work didnt seem right anymore. I spent weeks planning my proposal, then finally, bouquet in hand, I turned up at her flat.
She was slow to answer the door. When she finally did, she barely let me through the threshold before a man appeared from her bedroom, shirtless, hastily doing up his jeans. He looked me up and down and Lily stammered apologetically,
I meant to tell you This is Alex, my schoolmate. Were getting married. Ive loved him since we were kids
I let the bouquet fall onto the sideboard and ran out, taking the stairs two at a time. I was devastatedLily had seemed so innocent, so pure But I refused to wallow in self-pity. I decided Id make something of myself, took a job at a local firm, and started planning my own business strategy.
A few months later, I bumped into Mrs. Dawson, who told me Lily had married Alex, was expecting a babybut she wasnt happy. Alex, a notorious troublemaker since childhood, was no husband; yet Lily was infatuated, trailing after him, heedless of all advice.
And now, Mrs. Dawson sat before me, tears streaming as she shared her grief.
What happened? I finally managed.
He beat her, over and over, she whispered. But she tolerated it, wouldnt listen to me. How many times I begged her to come home! Once, I called the police, they took him away, but she dashed after him, got him released, claimed it was all her fault. She threatened to cut me out of her life if I ever meddled again. I was terrified that would truly happen, so I said nothing. But now Ill never see my girl again.
Do you need help with the funeral arrangements? I forced out, the taste of salt on the back of my throat.
Weve managed. Forty days have passed. The bastards been sent down, but whats the use? Lilys gone forever
She started sobbing, so I poured her a glass of water.
Perhaps I should ask Lucy to get you something for your nerves? I offered.
She shook her head.
Ive come because my conscience wont let me rest, Charles. I shouldve done this long ago, but Lily forbade it. She had a daughter from you. On the day she died, he found out about it. Someonethe village gossipspilled the beans. Of course, you remember Rose Smith?
Everyone knew RoseLilys childhood friend, Britains answer to a tabloid. It took a moment to process her words: A daughter from me?
Mrs. Dawson carried on, her composure frayed.
One day, Lily finally broke down in front of Rose, after theyd had a bit too much wine. She admitted she put up with Alexs abuse because she felt guiltyshe was bringing up another mans child. She really loved him, though. Rose wasted no timethey were all over the place the next morning. When Alex found out, he lost it. And this time, things went too far.
My mind reeled. Lily, so smart and beautiful, let herself fall for a brute, all while raising my daughter?
How do you know the child is mine? I asked, my mouth dry.
She told me herself, straight after she found out. I was happy, in a wayI love you like a son, Charles. But Lily said not to breathe a word to you. When she met Alex, he asked her out and she tried desperately to love only him, so she hurried things along, slept with him and then told him she was carrying his baby. I regret not telling you. Maybe you wouldve taken your daughter, but then that mongrel mightve turned on you too.
I stepped out, asked Lucy to make us some tea and bring biscuits.
It looks like weve a long conversation ahead, I said, inviting Mrs. Dawson to the sofa. Lets make ourselves comfortable, have some tea, and you can tell me everything.
She nodded. Lucy appeared with the tray and left quietly. I couldnt think of anything but what Id just heard. Itd been years since Id thought of Lily, but her death pierced something old and raw. And the thought of my daughter growing up with that abuser I could hardly contain my anger or pain.
Once she calmed a bit, Mrs. Dawson continued.
Chloe turns ten next month. Shes the spitting image of Lily, but she has your eyes. Alex always wondered why her eyes were such a different shade, but couldnt be bothered for longhe didnt care for his wife or daughter. Always off at the pub while Lily suffered in silence. Chloe stayed with me most, for her own safety. Shes a wonderful girl, clever and well-mannered. She plays the pianoLilys old one. But since Lily shes like a candle burning away. Im helpless. She misses her mum so.
She sobbed again, and I found my courage.
Ill be honest, this is all a shock. Im terribly sorry about Lily, but she did make her choices. As for Chloe, I need to be certain shes really my daughter. Surely you can understand? A paternity test comes first; then Ill work out what to do. If shes mine, I wont turn my back. But this is a lot to come to grips with at once.
Of course, I understand, Charles.
Ill sort something with the clinic and let you know when and where to bring Chloe. Heres my card, jot your number down for me.
Mrs. Dawson scribbled her details and glanced at the photo on my deska woman half-hidden behind a lilac bush, smiling softly.
Oh, is that your sister? I didnt know Natalie was your sisterLily never mentioned it, and they rarely spoke, just met once or twice at most.
No. Shes my wife, I replied, uneasy.
Impossible! she exclaimed. Thats Natalie, my nephews wife. Theyve been married eight years.
I passed her the framed photo, Have a closer looksurely youre mistaken?
But she shook her head. No mistake. Thats the lilac bush by my sisters window, you can even see the roof of their house. Thats Natalie, Williams wife.
Dumbfounded, I struggled to think. Natalie, not my wife? Then who?
My sister and I went to their wedding, visited several times since. Shes a saint to stick by William, after he ended up in the wheelchair. Theyd been at the market, selling produce when a bloke tried to haggle, things got nasty, and William fell onto a metal stallbroke his back. Had to sell most of the farm, but whats left, she and my sister manage. She found a job in a wealthy household, says her brother helped her arrange itbut shes rarely home these days, only pops back to drop off food and presents, buy her son a computer, a phone
So, Natalies got a son too? I asked.
Yes, Basil, hes seven now.
So many surprises in one afternoonmy heads spinning, I managed. Can I ask you not to mention this to anyone? I need time to work things out for myself.
Of course but Im certain. Thats Natalie.
After shed gone, I called for Lucy.
Lucy, would you sort out some sandwiches, and perhaps a bottle of brandy? And when it arrives, please lock all the doors. I dont want to see anyone.
I could see the concern in Lucys eyesshed never known me to drink, especially not now, with deals hanging by a thread. But she fetched everything Id asked for, rolling in a trolley stacked with food and brandy, then slipped out with my paperwork, closing the door gently behind her.
Late that evening, Lucy quietly checked on me as she tidied the last of the days work. I was slumped at the table, the brandy bottle empty, food untouched.
Mr. Charles, are you alright? she asked, laying a hand on my shoulder. I just nodded, not trusting my voice.
Would you like me to help you home?
No. Ill stay here, I muttered, stretching out on the office sofa. This is home tonight. She fetched the spare pillow and blanket from the cupboardremnants of our overnight work sessionsleft mineral water by the chair, checked the office one last time, and disappeared.
Lucy arrived early next morning, stopping at the chemist on her way. As she entered, I startled at the sound.
How are you? she asked, although she could see the answer.
My heads splitting. I cant believe I let this happen.
She handed me a glass of effervescent painkiller, then began to straighten the office.
I failed everything, Lucy. The paperwork
Dont worry, Mr. Charles, she said softly. Its all done.
What on earth would I do without you? Im endlessly grateful you found your way into my life.
Lucy blushed, gathering her things, but I stopped her.
Please stay a bit longer. Ive never felt this lost. So muchs happened, I dont know where to start.
Itll work out, youll see, she replied, gently untangling her fingers from mine. You always manage. Remember all those crises in business? You found the answers every time.
Because you were there.
And then it hit meLucy had been by my side for years, more familiar than my so-called wife, whose true identity was now in doubt. I remembered clearly how Id met Natalie. It was a freezing January evening. I was reversing out of a car park, headlights sweeping the pavement, when a woman darted across and slipped straight in front of me. I braked in time, but she fell to the kerb, shaken.
Are you alright? I rushed to help her up.
I think so, except she attempted to stand, wincing. Twisted my anklecant put weight on it.
Hop into the car. Ill take you to the hospital, I insisted.
She glanced at me warily. Where are you taking me?
Just to get checked. If its nothing, youre free to go.
She didnt protest. The doctor advised rest, not to walk on it for a few days.
I can drive you home? I offered.
She stared at the floor, I Ive nowhere to go. I was meant to view a flat, but missed it. Now I dont know what to do.
I can get you a room at a hotel, cover your meals. Ill take responsibilitywe both contributed to your fall.
Youre not to blame, she protested, But a hoteltoo expensive for me. Maybe help me find a flat?
Ill pay. You can rest up, then Ill help you flat-hunt after. Ill organise some food deliveries.
She teared up with gratitude.
I got her set up in a comfy room, dropped by the next day with fruit and juice. She laughed, I feel almost as good as new. Best nights sleep Ive had in ages. Thank you so much.
Glad I could do something for you, I said, and as we locked eyes, I felt an odd pull to her.
Soon she was getting about again and I helped her find a place to live. I figured my part was done, but a few days later, something made me visit. She opened the door, face blotchy, eyes red.
Whats wrong? I asked gently, guiding her to the sofa.
She broke down. I ran from my husband that nighthe was a violent brute. Locked me in, banned me from working, brought his lovers home and belittled me in front of them. One day, he forgot to bolt the door behind a new mistress and I escaped, but now he threatens me if I dont return. With no familygrew up in careIve very little savings, just about a month left.
I was deeply moved.
Cant you just divorce him? I asked, then realised how hard that would be.
He threatened to never allow it.
I promised to help. My solicitor explained that, if a spouses whereabouts were unknown and there were no children, a divorce could go through in their absence. I shared the plan with Natalie, and she followed through. I started to visit her more, sometimes shed cook me dinner. Almost without realising it, I grew attached and eventually proposed. She agreed, provided we kept it simpleno big affair.
She moved into my house and we lived together for two years. We couldnt have children, though I dearly wanted them. She told me not to worry; she was having treatment and needed clinic visits, never letting me drive her, always calling a taxi.
Suddenly, I was pulled sharply from my memories by Lucy, whod sat quietly beside me the whole time. Why hadnt I ever truly seen her? She was far more beautiful than Natalie, intelligent, gentle, modesta wonderful cook. Why?
Lucy, I know I cant do any of this without you, I admitted.
I told her everything Id learnt. She listened, overwhelmed, eyes swimming with tears.
Do you know where I could get a DNA test done quickly for Chloe? I asked.
Ill find out, she promised.
She arranged separate appointments, so Chloe and I wouldnt cross paths at first.
Youre an absolute star, Lucy.
Oh, stop, she blushed.
Stop calling me Mr. Charles, please. After all these years.
Youll always be my boss, she said quietly.
I thought we were friends by now, I replied with a shrug.
I called Natalie, telling her I had to go away on business for several daysbut in truth, I meant to follow her.
Lucy, can you help? Natalie knows my car, but yours will be anonymousand Ill never keep track alone.
Of course.
Within the hour, a taxi pulled up to our house. Natalie, in clothes Id never seen (cheap market gear), left with a trolley-load of groceries which she hauled to an old cottage at the edge of the next villagebeneath a great lilac bush, just like in the photo. Mrs. Dawson was right.
At the gate, a little boy rushed up and hugged her, then dashed inside with the bags.
Are you upset? Lucy asked, glancing at me.
What gets me, Lucy, is that Im not upset, not really. What a waste of time, though. At least Im free, at last.
We drove home in silence.
A couple of days later, I stayed home, knowing Natalie would try to slip back midweek. She did, just before lunch, whisking straight up to change. As she pulled out new clothes, I stepped in.
Odd choice of outfit, darling, I said. She nearly fainted in shock. Dont bother changing. From now on, youll be wearing thoseand you wont be staying here. But first, tell me everything. No lies, or your fantasy about your tyrant husband might just become a reality.
She gave in and confessed everything. After Williams accident, guilt stopped her leaving at first, but misery finally took hold. Mrs. Dawson happened to visit and wouldnt stop singing my praises, describing exactly where I worked. Natalie hatched her planshe never meant to fall under my car, but genuinely twisted her ankle, which made things easier. I played straight into her hands, even advising how she could file for divorce on a technicality. She had a new passport and used it to hide her marital status and child. Whenever I was away, shed slip off to her real family.
I told her to leave everythingpassport, bank cardsand get out. And for your sake, tell William the truth yourself. Your aunt surely wont keep this from her nephew for long.
She left without a word, but I felt sick inside, complicit in an act Id never intended. Id believed a stranger on sight and unwittingly torn a wife from her family.
A few days later, the DNA results came back. I was Chloes father. Still struggling with the weight of it, I promised myself she would lack for nothing, and Id find a way to win her love.
Lucy, would you help me pick out some things for Chloe? I asked. Catching myself, I realised I relied on Lucy for everything nownot just business.
Of course, if you need me.
I do, I said, giving her shoulder a gentle squeeze.
We went to the shops together and, five minutes before closing, each staggered out with our arms full.
You sure shell like all this? I asked, packing the bags into the car. Lucy nodded.
My niece is about her age. I know what little girls enjoy.
For the first time, I noticed her using you, not sir, and that made me smile.
Meeting Chloe was easier than I expected. Mrs. Dawson had prepared her wellshe greeted me shyly, with a hug. Soon, distracted by her gifts, her quiet smile returned. My heart melted as I watched.
I havent seen her smile in ages. Charlesthank you for not abandoning her.
Of course I couldnt
Sorry, but Im so happy for Chloe. But you wont mind if she stays with me for now? Itll take time for her to get used to you.
I understandI need time too. But, Mrs. Dawson, let me help Williamfind out what operation he needs. Ill pay for everything.
Oh bless you! Ill find outno one could ever thank you enough. You know, Natalie ran off, left just a note. Said sorry, wouldnt stay. Williams son loves his dad, and his grandma. Hes better off.
Lifes tricky, isnt it?
I had my marriage to Natalie annulled, let the authorities pursue forgery if they wished. I felt no regret. Thanks to private specialists, William finally had surgery and began his recovery. Chloe came to live with me, along with her grandmother.
My house is big enough for all of us, Mrs. Dawson. Ill feel better knowing youre here with Chloe, and youll feel at home.
Thats true, she smiled.
Lucy became a regular visitor, at first as my steadfast friend and partner at work, then soon as my fiancée. Chloe adored her.
Daddy, after your wedding, can I call Lucy mum?
Id be delighted, and I think Lucy would too.
Daddy, will you give me a baby brother or sister? I dream about it.
Since you dream about it, we must try.
For the first time in years, I felt truly happyand free. Lucy blossomed beside me, Chloes grandmother bonded with my parents, and gradually we became a whole, joyful family.
Lesson learned? Dont take people at face value. Real love, trust, and family grow where you nurture themsometimes right under your nose, and not in the places you think youre looking.
