I think your sisters flirting with me. The words tumbled out of Toms mouth, a cheeky grin spreading across his face.
Ellie froze, ladle poised above the simmering stew pot. The aroma of beef and vegetables filled the kitchen while she stared at Tom, trying to work out if he was joking or not. But there was something about the almost smug look he gave her that made it clearhe was completely serious, and was actually finding this whole thing amusing.
What did you just say? Her voice came out calmer than she expected.
You know, your Sophie. I swear, she keeps giving me those looks, he said, stretching casually, arms flung over the back of the chair. When youre in the kitchen, she comes and sits closer, brushes against my arm. Yesterday she even asked if I fancied coming to the gym with her. Just us. Without you.
And youre telling me this with a smile? Ellie turned off the hob and faced him fully.
Whats so wrong with it? I told her no, Tom shrugged, unbothered. I just thought you ought to know, that your little sis maybe isnt as innocent as you think.
Tom, Sophies only been with us a week, Ellie shot back, trying to keep her temper. Shes shattered after the divorce. Her whole lifes up in the air…
And shes trying to get over it with someone elses husband? he snorted. Look, Im not bragging. But facts are factsshes laying it on thick.
Ellie gripped the ladle until her knuckles turned white. Seven years of marriage. Seven years thinking she knew this man. Now here he was, sprawled on the sofa, pretty much boasting about how her baby sister was supposedly flirting with him.
Do you actually expect me to believe Sophie
If you dont believe me, watch for yourself, Tom said, sauntering to the fridge. Just dont blame me later if it all blows up and you say I kept secrets.
Just then, the front door rattled and Sophies voice sounded from the hall, bright and breezy: Anyone home? Im absolutely freezinghonestly, when will spring actually arrive?
She came into the kitchen, cheeks glowing, bundled up in a big white coat, groceries in each hand. Twenty-four, blonde hair, eyes too round and a little lostshed always looked rather sweet and a bit younger than her years. Since her marriage fell apart, though, her face was thinner, shed lost weight, and the moment she turned up crying at their door, Ellie insisted she stay for as long as she needed.
I got us cake! Sophie chirped, setting down a box. Eclairs, your favourite, Tom.
Ellie shot Tom a glance. He raised an eyebrow at her: See?
Thanks, Soph, Tom accepted the treat with a small smile. But Im trying to watch what I eat.
Oh, go on, one wont kill you, Sophie nudged his shoulder with a giggle. You look good already.
Ellies stomach twisted. Maybe Tom wasnt just making things up.
Soph, let me make you a cuppa, Ellie interjected, almost too quickly. Come on, sit, relax.
Im all right! Youre shattered, I can tell. Ill sort it, Sophie was already pulling mugs from the cupboard. Ell, sit down! Ill do it.
Ellie stayed quiet through dinner that night, just watching. Sophie did seem to be talking to Tom moretelling him about work, asking advice about her car, laughing at his jokes just a bit too loud. But maybe it was all innocentjust gratitude for a roof over her head, maybe relief at not being alone?
Tom, is it true theres a job going at your place for an accountant? Sophie rested her chin on her hand, gazing up at him thoughtfully.
Yeah, thats right. Why?
Im thinking of applying. Itd be nice, actuallyworking at the same company, car sharing, lunch together… Sophie grinned.
Soph, Ellie cut in, keeping her voice steady, I thought you were sticking to design?
Oh come on, Ell, everyone needs accountants! Design can wait. Tom, will you put in a good word for me?
Tom looked from Ellie to Sophie. Ill think about it, was all he said.
Later, Sophie disappeared to what had been Ellies home office, now her temporary bedroom. Ellie and Tom tidied up together in a tense silence.
So, do you believe me now? Tom asked quietly as he rinsed plates.
I dont know, Ellie admitted, scrubbing the pot more furiously than necessary. Maybe shes just grateful. Or lost. Lost after everything.
Wake up, Ellie. Your sister isnt that naïve
Dont! Ellie whipped round. Dont talk about her like shes some predator, Tom. Shes my sister.
Shes trying to take your husband, Tom shot back bluntly. And youre pretending not to see it.
Why didnt you say something before, then? Why only now?
He dried his hands in silence.
I wanted to be sure it wasnt just in my head.
Or you enjoyed the attention? Ellie shot at him without thinking.
He smirked. Dont be daft.
Still, there was something in his eyessatisfaction, almost. And thats when Ellie realisedit did flatter him, having a young woman make a fuss over him.
Ill have a word with her, Ellie said, determined.
Just dont start a soap opera. I dont need family drama.
Then why did you even bring it up?
He shrugged and walked off, leaving Ellie alone in the kitchen surrounded by doubts.
That night, she barely slept, turning over everything in her mindhow Sophie had shown up, suitcase in each hand, tears streaking her face; how she and Tom had offered their spare room with barely a second thought; how Ellie had tried so hard to support, to listen, to help.
But, if she was honest, Sophie did seem to gravitate to Tomalways asking if he could carry bags, asking about his day, floating round the flat in almost nothing.
Im losing it, Ellie thought. Thats my own sistershe wouldnt
But then she remembered something from years back: Sophie at fifteen, Ellies first boyfriend in tow how Sophie hovered round, glued herself to every joke, until Ellie exploded at their mum: Shes doing this on purpose! She just wants attention! But Mum only laughed it off: Dont be silly, shes still a child.
But Sophie was twenty-four now. Definitely not a child.
Next morning, Ellie woke to the sound of someone in the kitchen. It was just seven; Tom had already left for workhe always left early. Ellie slung on her dressing gown and padded through.
Sophie stood at the hob, making eggs in one of those tiny, lacy sleepshirts.
Morning! Sophie beamed. I made Tom some breakfasthe was really pleased!
Hes already left, Ellie said as she sat at the table.
I know. I got up early, just so hed have something nice. You get home so late all the time, must be exhausting, Sophie pushed the eggs onto a plate. Just thought Id help.
Im up by sevenI can manage breakfast, Ellie replied.
You dont need to! Sophie sat across from her, sipping coffee. Ell, dont you think Tom seems down lately? Have you two been arguing?
Ellie took a deep breath.
Soph, dont you think you might be giving Tom rather a lot of attention?
What? Sophie frowned. How?
Breakfasts. Always wanting to know his news. Wanting to work with him.
So? Hes family, Ell. Im grateful hes put me up, Sophie shot back. Are you saying Im doing something wrong?
Im saying sometimes it might seem a little unclear.
Unclear? Sophies tone iced over. Ellie, are you accusing me of
Im not accusing you of anything! Id just ask you to be a bit careful.
Careful about what? That I want to help around the flat? Or that I actually talk to people, instead of sulking in my room?
Soph”
You know what, Ell,” Sophie stood suddenly, My marriage just exploded. My husband left me for someone else. Im in pieces, I dont even have my own space. The only thing thats getting me through is knowing Im not alone, that someone cares. But youre twisting my thanks into something dirty!
Tears filled Sophies eyes as she dashed out, slamming the bedroom door.
Ellie stared at the now cold eggs. Ive made a mess of everything, she thought. Maybe Im imagining it all. Maybe Im just paranoid.
All day at work, she couldnt focus. At lunchtime, she texted Tom:
Talked to Sophie. Didnt go well.
His reply came an hour later:
Told you to be careful. Now shell blame it all on you.
Maybe it actually IS my fault?
Ellie, youre too nice. Shes taking advantage.
That evening, Sophie didnt appear for dinner. Ellie could hear music blaring from her room. She knocked gently:
Soph, can I come in?
Its open.
Sophie lay on her bed, clutching her phone, looking utterly miserable.
Im sorry, Soph. I never meant to upset you.
Sophie sat up, eyes red. You know, Ell, Ive always felt in your shadow. The older one, the clever one, the successful one. Everything always worked out for you. Ive always just been tagging along. And now, finally, someone notices me, treats me like an equal
Whos noticing you?
Tom, Sophie looked her straight in the eye. He talks to me like I matter. Asks what I think. He doesnt talk down to me, like Mum sometimes does. Or like you.
Come on, Soph, you know
Youre my role model, Ell. But you make me feel like Im the silly little sister that always messes up. Now I try to help, I try to belong, and you decide Im what? Flirting with your husband?
Her words sounded so genuine and hurt, Ellie felt a pang of guilt.
Im sorry. I just thought”
You just thought because you and Tom arent getting on, it must be about me, Sophie whispered. I see how you are now. Hardly talking, always on your phones. Maybe Im not the problem?
Were just tired
Thats what everyone says. Then they break up. Like me and Mark.
Ellie sat on the bed beside her.
Were fine. Its just work. Stress.
If you say so, Sophie murmured, giving her a hug. I dont want to fall out. Youre still the most important person in the world to me.
They made up, and Sophie came and helped with dinner. By the time Tom came home, things almost felt normal. Almost.
But Ellie couldnt shake the unsettling feeling. Something still wasnt rightthe way Sophie spoke, her glances, the way she always eased herself down next to Tom on the sofa.
Tom, is it true your office is having a do on Saturday? Sophie asked, scrolling on her phone.
Yeah, that’s right. Howd you know?
You mentioned it to Ellie. I overheard. Can I come too? Be your plus one.
Ellie stiffened.
Soph, its really just for staff. Only colleagues go.
Why? You can take whoever you want, right Tom?
Tom glanced at Ellie. Actually, yesyou can. But Ellie was coming already.
Great! The three of usmuch more fun, Sophie beamed. Ill buy a new dress. Been ages since Ive been out!
Ellie opened her mouth to protest, but Tom was already nodding. Yeah, why not. Well go together.
And he smiled.
That night, Ellie lay awake listening to Tom snoring next to her and the faint strains of Sophies music in the other room. Suddenly, everything clicked into place.
Sophie wasnt flirting, exactly.
She was wedging herself into their lifefilling the space next to Tom, becoming indispensable, always showing she was fresh, attentive, younger.
And Tom actually liked it.
Next morning, Ellie got up first on purpose. She made breakfast, set the table nicely. When Tom came down, everything was ready.
Ooh, this looks fancy, he said, sitting down. Thanks.
Its nothing. Im your wife.
He looked up at her. Something wrong, Ell?
No, just I realised I havent really been looking after you lately. Breakfasts, dinners feels like Ive just been running on autopilot.
Well, so have I, he shrugged. Works a slog.
Yes. But I think I want to change that.
He nodded, scrolling through the news on his phone. When Sophie padded into the kitchen, breakfast was over and everything was washed up.
Oh, she looked a bit lost. I was going to do that
Dont worry, Soph, Ellie said, soft but firm. Just relax. Youre our guest.
But I want to help! I hate feeling like a guest.
Help when I ask, all right? Now go have a showeryouve got a soft bed waiting.
Ellie couldnt tell if there was annoyance in Sophies eyes or if she was just imagining it at this point.
For the next few days, Ellie made a point of actively taking care of Tommaking his favourites, asking about his day, making herself part of the conversation whenever Sophie tried to pull Tom aside. She kept drawing the boundariespolitely, but clearly.
Soph, you were looking at flats to rent, right? Maybe we should check out some this weekend together? Ellie suggested one evening.
Whats the rush? Sophie frowned. You said I could stay as long as I needed.
Of course you can. But having your own spacefreedom
Im happy here, Sophie declared, leaning back on the sofa. Arent I, Tom?
Tom looked up from his laptop. Actually, Ellies right. You should have your own lifesee your mates, have people over
Im off men altogether after Mark, thanks, Sophie interjected.
Youll feel better soon, Ellie replied quietly. Everything heals.
And what would you know, Ell? Everythings always been perfect for youone bloke, fairytale romance, the whole bit.
Soph
Im knackered, Im off to bed, Sophie said, getting up and stomping away.
Tom turned to Ellie. You shouldnt have pushed her about moving out.
Why not?
Shes fragile, she needs support.
Support doesnt mean staying here forever!
Nobody said forever. Just give her some time.
How much? A month? Two? A year?
He just shrugged and went back to his laptop.
Saturday night, the work party. Ellie treated herself to a new dressmidnight blue, fitted, with an open back, hair and makeup perfectly done. When she came out, Tom gave a low whistle.
Wowhavent seen you like this in ages.
I havent let myself in ages, she smiled.
Sophie came out next, in a bright red mini, killer heels and bold lipstick.
Well? How do I look? She spun around.
You look smashing, Ellie nodded. Only, its a work do, Soph. Maybe something a bit less bold?
This IS subtlefor me, Sophie retorted. You should see my actual party dresses.
The restaurant was buzzingToms colleagues greeted them warmly. Most recognised Ellie; shed gone to these things in the early years, though not recently with all the overtime.
Ellie! Its been AGES! gushed Maria, the head accountant, hugging her. And whos this?
My sister, Sophie.
Ooh, sisters! Maria grinned. Tom, youre a lucky man, what with all these gorgeous women around you!
Sophie positively glowed at the attention, planting herself between Tom and Ellie at the table, jumping into every conversation, laughing and chatting away.
Sophie said she wants to work at the office, Ellie murmured to Tom. Youre seriously considering it?
Why not? Theres a spot open.
Dont you think its a bit odd? Both of us there, now her too? Three of us, lunching together
Ellie, I dont get what the problem is.
The problem is, the boundaries are blurring!
He frowned. Boundaries? Its work, Ell. Thats all that matters.
Exactlyso lets not mix family and work!
Ladies, what are you whispering about? Sophie turned to them. Got secrets?
Just work, Ellie answered curtly.
Oh, yawn! Sophie rolled her eyes. Come on, Tomdance with me?
Without waiting for an answer, she marched him to the crowded dance floor.
Ellie sat back, glass of wine in hand, watching them. Sophie was all energy, laughing and throwing her head back. Tom smiled too, though he kept a little distanceor was that just wishful thinking?
Your sisters a firecracker, Maria commented, sliding into the seat next to Ellie. Just non-stop.
Yeah, shes a live wire.
But honestlyyoure the serious one, arent you? Chalk and cheese, but definitely sisters.
Ellie nodded as something knotted in her throat. Was she just too uptight now? Too bogged down in work and life? Did that make Sophie seem so much more lively, more attractive?
When they returned, Sophie collapsed into her seat, cheeks flushed. God, that was fun! Havent let loose like that in ages. Ell, come dance!
I dont really dance, you know that.
Thats exactly it! You never want to do anything! Sophie suddenly burst out laughing, but it sounded more like a jab. Youve become SO sensible, Ell. Utterly boring.
Soph
Kidding! Kidding! Sophie slung an arm round her shoulders. Lighten up, will you?
The rest of the evening went by in a haze. Ellie drank, chatted politely, but was miles away. When she saw Sophie whispering in Toms ear, Tom laughing, something in her clicked.
Enough.
Back at home, after Sophie retreated to her room, Ellie closed the door to their bedroom and faced Tom.
We need to talk.
About what? He was loosening his tie, looking blank.
About whats going on.
What dyou mean?
Tom, dont act thick. Sophie. Shes wedged herself into our lives.
Weve talked about this already.
No, we havent! Ellies voice broke. You told mesmug, eventhat she was flirting with you. Not bothered, not upsetjust, what? Chuffed about it?
Thats ridiculous.
Its not! Youre flattered by her. My own sister! And youre encouraging it!
Im not doing anything! Im just not rude to someone staying under our roof.
Shes my sister, and shes acting out of order!
Or maybe youre just jealous, Ellie. Maybe you think shes younger, funnier, happier
The words stung.
Youre comparing us?
Im just observing. Ellie, youve gone roboticwork, home, repeat. No spark, no warmth
Thats because I look after everything! Cook, clean, the whole lot! And you?
And I what? I dont earn? I dont support us?
Us? Were hardly a family, Tom! No kidsyou wont even talk about it!
He went pale. Dont do this.
Why not? Im thirty-two! Im running out of time, Tom. But you keep promising later, and not yet, and I keep waiting
Im not ready.
You never will be! Because this suits you: no commitments, no responsibilities, and now Sophies come along, youre lapping up the attention like a strutting cockerel!
Ellie, youre losing it.
Im telling the truth! Youre soaking up having two women fussing around you! But it stops now.
She stormed out, wrapped herself in a throw on the sofa, and sat in the darkness. Sleep wouldnt come. She couldnt think, didnt want to feel.
The next morning, she woke to the sounds of Tom getting ready. It was Sunday, but hed said he had a meeting. He left without saying goodbye.
Ellie sat, coffee in hand, watching the snow drifting past the window. Everything felt still. Closed in.
Ell? Sophie, in her pyjamas, stood hesitantly in the doorway. You okay?
Couldnt sleep.
You guys argued, didnt you? I heard you.
Not your business, Soph.
Sophie sank into the armchair opposite her.
If Im if Im getting in the way
You are, Ellie cut her off, turning sharply. Youre getting in the way of my marriage.
What?!
Just tell me honestly. Whyre you doing this?
Doing what?
Cooking Tom breakfast. Short skirts. All the touching, the plans to work together. Do you want him?
Sophie blanched. Ellie, are you serious?!
Answer me. Honestly.
There were a few seconds of silence. Then, softly, Sophie said, No.
I dont believe you.
I mean it, I really do! Her voice broke. I dont want your husband, Ellie. I want I want to be you.
What?
Youve got everything. A husband, a flat, some sort of security. Youre pretty, clever, youve made it. Me? Im a failed divorcee at twenty-four. My lifes a mess. And when I came here, I just felt like I finally belonged somewhere good. Maybe I went too far, desperately trying to fit in. Not because I want your husband. Because I want your life.
Tears dripped silently down Sophies face.
Soph
Im sorry, Ellie. I didnt want to ruin things. I just I was jealous. Trying so hard to please both of you, to make you want me around.
Ellie reached over and pulled her sister into a hug. They sat like that, both cryingexhausted, battered, almost children again.
Soph, my life isnt perfect, Ellie said quietly.
But you HAVE a life. Ive got nothing but rubble.
You can rebuild rubble, bit by bit. Make something better.
They talked for a long time. Sophie admitted she was lost, scared of being alone, clinging to Tom for a sense of steadiness shed lost since the divorce.
Ill find a flat, Sophie promised. This week.
No rush. Butmaybe we should put some boundaries in place?
Yeah, of course.
When Tom came home, the whole flat felt more peaceful. Sophie sat scrolling flats on her laptop in her room. Ellie was finishing dinner.
Hi, he said, hovering in the doorway, a little sheepish.
Hi.
About last night”
I need to say something too, Ellie interrupted, drying her hands. Tom, we need therapy. Couples counselling.
He frowned. Why?
Because were in trouble. We cant sort it out ourselves.
What sort of trouble? Because of Sophie?
Not just her. Its us, Tom. Were not a couple anymore. Were housemates.
Tom said nothing.
I dont want that. I want a family. A real one. Kids. Closeness. If you dont want the same, tell me now.
I” he buried his face in his hands. I dont know, Ellie.
Then lets figure it out. With help.
He nodded, slowly.
Two weeks later, Sophie moved outshe found a little studio flat nearby. Ellie helped her move boxes, bought her a set of plates and bedding.
Thanks for everything, Sophie said, hugging her goodbye. And sorry.
Im sorry toosorry I didnt see you were struggling.
I still am. But now I knowI have to learn to be alone. Figure out who I am, without some guy to fall back on.
You can do it, Ellie smiled.
She and Tom started seeing a counsellor. It was tough, raw, but they learnt things about each other theyd hidden for yearsresentments, fears, regrets.
Im scared of being a dad, Tom confessed in one session. Because I dont know how. My own dad was awful. Im scared Ill be the same.
Im scared Im not good enough, Ellie admitted. Ive tried so hard to be the perfect wife, but in the process, I think I lost myself.
They kept going, kept talking. It was a startnot a fairy tale, but honest.
As for Sophie? Six months later, she rang Ellie, glowing.
You wont believe it, Ell. Met someone at yoga. Calm, kind nothing like Mark!
Im chuffed to bits for you, Soph, Ellie said.
Do you remember when I was staying with you? That was my wake-up call. I was jealous of someone elses happiness. I should have been building my own.
Youre a star, Soph, Ellie laughed.
She hung up and glanced over at Tom, nose in a book on the sofa. He looked up, caught her eye, smiled.
Whats on your mind?
Just thinking how someone elses life always looks better until you start appreciating your own.
He nodded, held out a hand. She crossed over, sat beside him. It wasnt perfect. But it was real, and right then, that meant everything.
