A dozen years into wedded life, my wife Emily once tossed out a suggestion that nearly made me drop my tea: Why not spend an evening with another woman? she said, with a mischievous glint. Someone who adores you and would be chuffed to bits for your company. She meant my mum, Margaret, whod been flying solo since Dad popped his clogs nearly two decades back.
Work and wrangling our trio of offspring kept me so busy, Id become a rare sight at her placeguilt nibbled at me like a persistent squirrel. That evening, I rang her up and asked, Fancy dinner and a film, Mum?
Her reply came with a hint of alarm, Oliver, is everything alright? You havent crashed the car, have you? Late-night calls always had her bracing for calamity.
I assured her, No disasters, just thought you might fancy a night out with your favourite son. After a pause, she said, Oh, Id be delighted!
Friday rolled around and I drove over to her cosy terraced house, nerves jangling like loose change. She was already waiting, coat draped over her arm, hair perfectly coiffed, sporting the blue frock shed splurged on for her last birthday.
I told the book club ladies youre taking me out, she said, sliding into the car. Theyre green with envy.
We ended up at a snug bistronothing fancy, but brimming with character. She looped her arm through mine, walking in like the Queen herself.
At the table, I read the menu aloudher glasses never quite up to the task. She watched me, her smile tinged with nostalgia.
When you were a nipper, I used to do this for you, she mused.
I grinned, Tables have turned, havent they?
We swapped stories and gossip, the evening both utterly normal and quietly magical. We dawdled so long, the film started without us.
On the drive back, she declared, Next time, Im footing the bill.
I agreed, though we both knew shed argue over the cheque.
Back home, Emily asked, How was it?
I replied, Far lovelier than Id imagined.
Just days later, Mums heart gave outno warning, no second chances.
Soon after, a letter arrived with the bistros receipt tucked inside. Her note read: Ive paid for our next meal. Not sure Ill make it, but theres enough for you and Emily. Ill never manage to say how much that night meant.
All my love, Mum.
