Why did you bring your boy to the wedding? We didnt invite any children!
My little lad, Oliver, is nine, brighteyed and as calm as a cucumber. A few weeks ago my sister, Beatrice, announced her nuptials and, in the invitations, clearly marked the event as adults only. I didnt love the idea, but Id arranged with a friend, Claire, to look after Oliver that night.
The night before the ceremony Claire rang, sounding miserable. Shed come down with a stomach bug and begged to be excused. I tried to soothe her, then sat in the kitchen mulling it over. Oliver was already snoozing, and the next morning the wedding would start. What to do? I decided to take Oliver with me. Would Beatrice throw her own nephew out on the street?
Jim, my brotherinlaw, was a welloff gentleman, so the reception was set to be a proper blowout. Beatrice was a bundle of nerves before the big day, so I hadnt warned her that Oliver would be in tow. The moment she spied the boy, her face went from bright to downright horrified. She practically lost her rag and shouted:
Why have you dragged your son to a childrenfree wedding? Youve ruined everything!
I was mortified. Oliver stood there, puzzled, having no clue what the fuss was about. And honestly, why make a mountain out of a molehill? As it turned out, that was only the beginning.
Let him be with a child. Its her choice where she takes him, Jim said matteroffactly.
I was taken aback. Beatrice refused to listen to any explanation, and I was left talking to a brick wall. In a flash of irritation I scooped Oliver and bolted for home, leaving my parents at the venue, though they seemed reluctant to celebrate anyway. The whole atmosphere felt about as festive as a rainy bank holiday.
Beatrice has been sulking ever since, insisting I apologise. I dont think Im at fault; her reaction makes her look rather unreasonable, especially now that shes about to become a mother herself. Should I beg her forgiveness? What would you do if you were in my shoes?
