Courtship by Appointment
Alice sat at her desk, buried in paperwork. In front of her lay a formidable stack of documentsreports, invoices, and receipts. She sorted them into folders with precision, checked numbers, and scribbled notes in her pad. The office was quiet, interrupted only by muffled voices floating from the next room and the gentle tinkle of keys beyond the wall. Sunlight crept through the blinds, sketching neat ribbons of light across her table.
Suddenly the phone rang, sharp and unexpected. Alice started, tearing her eyes from a spreadsheet to glance at her mobile. It read Mum. That gave her pause; Mum usually rang in the evenings, once home from work, and it was barely three oclock. What could possibly warrant phoning now?
She answered and pressed the phone to her ear.
Alice, darling, can you come round as soon as possible? Mums voice was unusually anxious, with a tremor Alice detected straight away. Its very important!
Alices insides tightened. Instinctively, she straightened in her chair and nudged the paperwork aside, as though it had suddenly become irrelevant.
Whats happened? she asked, striving to sound calm, though worry had already laced her words. Are you alright?
Im fine, Mum replied quickly, as if desperate to scotch that thought. But we need to talk. Urgently.
Alice stared for a moment at the scattered documents. The day at work was far from over, her to-do list still daunting, but Mums tone left no room to argue.
Okay, she agreed, flicking a glance at the clock. Give me an hour.
The sooner the better, Mum added, lowering her voice, and Alice heard a kind of taut secrecy. There are guests here.
Guests hung in the air, laden with unspoken meanings. Alice frowned, racking her brains to picture what might be unfolding. A dozen possible scenarios flashed through her mindfrom grave to the trivial. But if Mum said urgent, delay was unthinkable.
She swiftly tidied upslotted the paperwork into a folder, grabbed her phone and purse, shrugged on her jacket. Then she dashed in to see her manager, explained the situation. He was an understanding sort and let her go without a fuss. On leaving his office, Alice tapped into her taxi app, keyed in Mums address, and confirmed the pick-up. While waiting outside, she rang again to ask if she should bring anything, but Mum was terse: No, just come.
Stepping out, Alice caught herself almost breaking into a jog. Her mind teemed with questions, but she held off letting her imagination run wild. Five minutes later, the taxi arrived. She slipped onto the back seat, gave the address, then watched the drivers clock, willing him silently to get a move on.
The journey lasted exactly forty minutes. Alice checked the time constantly, her thoughts so consumed she barely noticed the familiar passing sceneryrows of Victorian terraces, flashes of high street shops, clusters of trees in tiny park squares. Everything was a blur. She was preoccupied with guessing what awaited her.
Maybe Mum had trouble at work? Shed mentioned a stressful contract recently, pressure mounting, the office edgy. Or had something happened to Aunt Linda? The two were best friends for decades, anything affecting one rippled instantly over to the other. Or perhaps bad news from the more distant family? Alice went through every possibility, but none seemed to fit.
When the taxi drew up outside her childhood home, Alice paid the driver in pounds, hurried up the front steps, and fished for her keys. But before she could unlock the door, it was flung wide open.
At last! Mum practically pulled her inside by the hand. Come in, quickly.
The familiar, homely aroma of vanilla scones, Mums speciality for notable occasions, hit Alice at once. She paused, breathing it in. That scent always meant something joyful: a birthday, a celebration, happy news. But today’s urgency and Mums anxious tone felt at odds with the festive smell.
Timidly, Alice slipped off her shoes and ventured through the hall.
Mum, whats going on? she asked, heading for the sitting room.
She stopped dead at the doorway. Around a round table draped in a snowy white cloth sat Simon. The same Simonthe son of Mums best friend, whom Alice had called Soggy Simon since theyd been six. He was always slow, awkward, prone to drop things and trip over his words. Now he gave a sheepish grin, fiddling with his shirt collar as if it was strangling him.
Next to him sat Aunt Linda, beaming like it was her daughters wedding. Her face shone with giddy hope, momentarily throwing Alice.
Hello, Alice, Simon stood, trying to sound confident. Long time, no see.
Its been a while. Could have waited longer, if Im honest, Alice replied, arms folded, masking her bemusement. Mum, why did you want me here so urgently?
Mum ignored the edge in Alices tone. She nervously smoothed the tablecloth, then a serviette, then the cloth again.
Darling, Linda and I thought Mum drew breath. You two have known each other for years. Youre both grown up, independent
And? Alice eyed her mother, barely concealing her irritation. How is this about me? Mum, I left work early, kept people waitingall for what?
Aunt Linda, unable to contain herself, interjected: Simons done so well! Lovely job, owns his own place All his ducks in a row.
We just wanted you two to have a chat, Mum finally met Alices gaze, but her eyes darted away. To catch up, maybe get to know each other properly.
Frustration bubbled inside Alice. Another attempt to pair her off with a suitable chapas though she couldnt manage her affairs herself. She clenched her fists, trying to stay calm, but her voice trembled.
Mum, Alice took a deep breath, then another, trying to be measured. I appreciate you worrying about my personal life. But Ill choose who I spend time with.
Simon blushed, squirmed in his seat and tried to smooth things over.
Alice, maybe dont be so hasty. We havent even spoken yet Lets at least chat, like we used to. We got on alright once. Youre lovely, Im alright as well
Whats the point, Simon? Alice turned to look him in the eye. Youve never been my type. Nothings changed. I cant pretend theres anything here besides a bit of childhood friendship.
He dropped his gaze, fiddling with his collar as though it was shrinking by the second.
We could give it a chance Im genuinely interested. Really. Id like something to work out.
Alice closed her eyes for a moment to gather her thoughts. She didn’t want to be cruel, but neither could she play along.
Simon, she softened her voice, youre a good man, really decent. Kind, reliable, all in order. But that doesnt mean we have to be together. You cant manufacture feelings just because someone believes its right.
She felt the tension of the past hour slowly ebbing away.
I think Id best go, she slung her bag over her shoulder. Sorry, Mum, but its better to be clear than pretend. Its not for me.
Alice! Mum caught her arm, as if to hold her back. Just wait Lets talk calmly. We were only trying to help
No. Alice gently but firmly removed her mothers hand. Well talk later. When youre ready to listen, not put on a show. Ive got to get back to work. And pleaseno more stunts like this. I was really worried.
She didnt stay for a reply, quietly closing the door behind her. Outside, the air was crisp and fresh after a morning shower. Alice inhaled deeply, relief flooding through her with every breath.
Why couldnt her mother just let her be? Why this insistence on matchmaking? Hadnt she realised by now it would never work? Alice had always known what she wanted from lifeincluding who she wanted beside her. She didnt need someone so lacking in confidence! Sure, he had a steady job, prospects But was that really enough? A man should be sure of himself, not nervy or evasive, and certainly not reliant on his mum to solve his life problems.
Still simmering, Alice cut through the park shed known since she was little. Everything was as usualchildren ran along the paths, women with prams swapped news, old couples sat on benches soaking up the sun. Alice weaved around puddles, careful not to soak her trainers. Raindrops fell from the branches, dotting her shoulders, but she paid no mind.
After a while, her phone vibrated again. Mum flashed up on the screen. Alice hesitated, then answered.
Alice, why did you go? Mums voice was wounded, not angryhurt at being left mid-conversation in something shed deemed important. We just wanted to talk.
Mum, I cant marry Simon just because you and Aunt Linda have been friends for decades, Alice said calmly as she kept walking. Marriage is too important to base on mums friendship.
Who said anything about marriage? Mum raised her voice a notch. I just thought you could chat! Hes decent, educated, works hard, doesnt drink. A good young man
He probably is, Alice admitted, even though Mum couldnt see her nodding. Hes probably lovely. Doesnt mean hes right for me.
So who is? Mums voice faltered with fatigue, as if this row had played out endlessly. Youve been single for three years. You dont go out, dont meet anyone. What are you waiting for?
Im not waiting, Mum, Alice found a bench and sat. Children were trying to float a paper boat in a puddle in front of her. I wont just date the nearest man because someone else says its time. Let it be my decision, not yours and Lindas project.
Your decision means you stay home, work late, eat alone in front of the telly, and only speak to workmates? Mums voice cracked with worry. I just want you to be happy, love.
But I am, Alice replied, sitting back. My happiness just looks different. I love my job, Im happy as I am. I dont need a man just for the sake of it! I wont settle down because you want me to.
There was a silence, only faint background household clinks; Mum must have set the phone aside to compose herself. Eventually, she replied in a faint whisper:
Alright. Sorry for pressuring you. I worry, you know. I fear youll end up alone when were gone.
I understand, Alice said gently. And I love you for caring. But lets not have any more surprises, please. Youve no idea what wild things I imagined when you called.
I promise, Mum replied, and Alice could hear the smile return to her voice. If you ever meet someone you really care about, tell me first, wont you?
Of course, Alice stood to go, adjusting her bag. I will. Now Id best get moving. Work calls. Love you.
Love you too, darling. Look after yourself.
Alice put her phone away and looked up at the sky, now clearing, as clouds drew aside to reveal a sweep of pale blue. Sunlight broke through, gilding the rooftops and trees. In the distance, girls laughed on the pavement, swinging their bags. A man in running gear jogged by, a ginger spaniel bounding at his side, tongue lolling.
She drank in the fresh air. Life buzzed onpeople in motion, children playing, the café opposite busy with weekend punters. It all seemed so simple, and with that ordinariness, peace seeped through her. She realised life offers countless paths, unexpected meetings, new chances every day. Its futile to cram your fate into someone elses template of what should be.
Over the next few days, Alice tried to keep thoughts of that awkward confrontation at bay. Work at the agency was consuming: her team was launching a major campaign, calendars clogged with meetings. She was always first in, last outsorting figures, reviewing budgets, hashing out plans with clients. Breaks were for strong tea and stolen bites of sandwiches. By evening, she barely managed a shower before collapsing into bed.
Yet late at night, the city outside asleep and her flat silent, Alices mind would wander back to that day. She pictured her mothers upset, Simons uneasy smile, Aunt Lindas glowing hope. She felt no guilther conviction was clearbut she couldnt shake a tang of sadness that it had come to blunt honesty.
That Friday, while sorting through emails, Alice spotted an invite from a coworker: his birthday do. Itll be funcome along, meet some interesting people, great music! For a second, she hesitated; after a draining week, the sofa beckoned. But she realised shed not been out anywhere but the shop or work in ages. Maybe it was time to change that.
Why not? she decided, replying, Ill be there.
The party was at a cosy café at the edge of townsmall but stylish, with exposed brick, oak tables, sofas by the windows. When Alice arrived, the place already buzzed. The air was scented with coffee, pastries, a hint of perfume; jazz played quietly, the guests laughed, voices blending in hum.
She spied the birthday boy by the bar, gesticulating grandly in the centre of a group. He waved and hurried to greet her.
You made it! he cried, hugging her. I thought you might bail out.
I needed a change of scene, she grinned. Andhappy birthday!
After a quick chat about work, he pointed her to a table by the window. Go join themgood crowd. Ill fetch you later.
Alice took a juice from a passing waiter, glanced around, and squeezed into a spare seat. The group were midway through a joke and she found herself drawn in, soon relaxing into the flow of conversation.
Hi, the man beside her smiled, open and friendly. Youre Alice, arent you? Im Andrewfrom accounts.
Yes, she nodded, smiling. Nice to meet you, Andrew.
I saw you in last months meetingyoure the project lead with GlobalTech, right?
She was surprised he knew. Usually, different departments were quite detached.
Spot on, she said. And youre in
Analytics. Did some risk models for your project.
Their chat was easy. Andrew wasnt just switched-on at work; he was genuinely engaging. He was a great listener, asked good questions, and added witty observations that made Alice laugh more than she had all week.
Eventually, as the café grew loud, Andrew gestured towards the door: Fancy some fresh air? Its tricky making conversation in here now.
She agreed. Outside, it was cool and peaceful. Stars peeped between rooftops, and distant city sounds blurred into the night. They stood by a balustrade, watching the lights of passing cars.
What about outside work? Andrew asked, leaning against the rail.
I read, walk I like a good film when I get the chance. You?
I love to travel, his eyes brightened. Went to Cornwall last yearstill cant get over it. Clifftops, fresh sea air, pasties just felt so real.
Tell me more! Alice turned to him, genuinely interested.
Andrew described winding lanes, the scent of fresh-baked bread, rugged paths along the Atlantic coast. But it was the warmth of the people he lingered ontheir easy hospitality, their stories, how theyd shared a pint or two at the local inn.
And you? he asked, when the time felt right.
I love the seaside, Alice smiled, remembering Brighton sands last summer. The sound of the waves, fresh salt air But work keeps me busy, so I only manage some time off each couple of years.
We should fix that, he teased gently. Perhaps next year, together?
Alice stopped in surprise, but then laughed.
Bit bold!
Just honest, he said, earnest. I like talking to you. Id love to get to know you.
She saw no pretence, no pressure; only friendly interest and ease. And it felt good.
Im open, she laughed softly. No rushing, though, agreed?
Absolutely, he smiled with warmth and no hint of haste. Coffee tomorrow? Nice and relaxed.
Deal, Alice replied, a contented glow rising within her.
Back at home, before she could even take off her shoes, her phone buzzed. Mum. This time, she answered at once.
Alice, love. How are you? Mums voice was tentative, as though treading on eggshells.
Fine, Alice replied, stretching back on the sofa. She was still smiling from her evening, and it softened her tone. Went to a mates party. Met someone, actually.
Really? Mums surprise came through, tinged with curiosity. Whats he like?
Hes nice, Alice chuckled, picturing what Andrew would make of the inquisition. Smart, funny, andbonusdoesnt ask his mum for advice when things dont work out.
Mum actually laughed, and the tension that had hung over them was gone.
So I neednt worry?
Alice paused, wanting to put it right.
Its not wasted, she said softly. You care, and Im grateful. But for now, you can worry less. Let me steer this, alright?
Deal, her mother promised, and Alice could hear her smile. Love you.
And you.
Alice set her phone down, gazing out the window as the sweep of the city lights glitteredyellow, orange, whitea web stretching on to the horizon. Cars passed with glowing trails. Faint laughter, half-caught conversations, distant music filtered up from the street.
Alice breathed in, content. The evening, the chat with Andrew, the honest talk with her motherall of it settled into a new, promising pattern. She couldnt know what lay ahead, but she realised, with new certainty, that the best things happen when you follow your own pathnot someone elses timetable or blueprint.
Beyond the window, the citys rhythm pulsed on, and Alice, sitting quietly, felt at peacesure that, really, everything was going just as it should.
