Youre not a wife, youre nothing more than a housemaid. You dont even have children!
Mum, Emily is going to stay here for a while. Were renovating the flat and its impossible to live there right now. Theres a spare room, so why should she live in all that dust? Oliver explained, his tone firm.
It was clear the idea didnt bother him in the slightestquite the opposite of his wife and mother. Barbara, his mother, could hardly hide her distaste for Emily.
I have to work; I cant just stay here all day, Emily whispered, her words trembling.
Emily worked from home, her job needing peace and quiet. Oliver was gone at the office most days, making it tricky to cope under one roof with his mother. As for Emily, she was used to the quiet rhythm of her own home, alone and undisturbed.
Emilys eyes flickered to Barbara, searching for something to say. Her mother-in-law plainly didnt want her there, but there was no other way. Together, they sat stiffly at the dining table, beginning supper.
Emily, could you please pass your famous salad? asked Oliver, trying to lighten the mood.
Oliver, dont eat that rubbish. I made you something else, proper and wholesome, Barbara interjected, fussing over him.
Emilys expression changed instantly. Her husband was allergic to tomatoeshow could Barbara forget? When Oliver was a boy, his mother never paid attention. Shed simply mumble, No need for doctors, Ill just give him a tablet and hell be fine.
Hes allergic. Why did you put tomatoes in the salad? Emily demanded, her voice barely steady.
Dont be ridiculous. Theres only one tomato; nothings going to happen, Barbara scoffed, waving her hand.
Hes going to get sick.
Oh, Emily, for heavens sake, calm down. He doesnt have any allergy. Im his mother, I know him far better than you ever will.
Im his wife. Its my job to look after him properly.
Youre not a wife, just a servant. You dont have children! Once you do, then well talk.
Emily shot up from the table and rushed to the bedroom, barely holding back tears. Barbara always jabbed at her most sensitive spot. Oliver hurried after her, worry etched on his face.
Emily, Im sorry. Maybe I should go stay with my parents a while, or move into the office. I cant live with your mum like this, she said, voice shaking.
Let me talk to her. Shell stop, I promise.
No. Weve done this a thousand times. We cant live peacefully under one roof together.
In the end, they rented a flat for a while just to prevent another family crisis. Barbara complained, of course, but she had no say. And Emily, at last, could breathe and be grateful she had such a kind, understanding husband.
