Daughter, shall I expect you on Sunday? I asked her. Of course, she replied.
I was eagerly waiting for my children to arrive, getting everything ready for their visit. I wanted to treat them to something delicious. I cleaned the house thoroughly, made myself presentable, and set the table beautifully. Everything was prepared, and all that was left was to wait for my guests to arrive. But the hours ticked by, and no one turned up at the agreed time. I started worrying something might have happened to them.
I had planned to give my children a rather generous amount of money, knowing how much they longed for a new car. Eventually, I picked up the phone and dialled my daughters number. She answered, her voice thick with sleep.
Mum, I completely forgot we were supposed to come round, she said.
You mean I spent the past two days getting ready for you for nothing? Today is my birthday, after all, I reminded her.
Mum, I promise well come tomorrow. Ive just been so busy I lost track of everything. Honestly, its nothing.
I hung up the phone, feeling utterly miserable. All my preparations seemed pointless. I threw away all the food Id made for them, feeling foolish and alone. Then, on a whim, I packed a suitcase, took the cash I meant to give them, and set off on holiday to Brighton.
The break was just what I needed. One afternoon while walking in the park, a gentleman approached me and invited me out for a coffee. His name was Philip, a retired judge. Conversation came easily; he had a wealth of captivating stories, and I found myself sharing my own life with him.
It didnt take long for us to fall for each other. Before I left, Philip asked if Id consider moving in with him. Ive got a flat, a good pension. We can enjoy life togethercinema trips, relaxing, just being happy. I hesitated at first, thinking of my children and grandchildren.
What about them? I wondered aloud.
They have their lives, and theyre more than welcome to visit us, Philip reassured me.
Suddenly, I thought of how my daughter had forgotten my birthday, and I realised the time had come to put myself first. So I agreed.
A week later, I returned home. There on my door was a missing persons notice with my description. Someones looking for you, arent they? Philip asked.
Thatll be my daughter, I replied with a wry smile.
She didnt know you were away, then?
No, she hadnt a clue.
Just then, my daughter appeared on the stairs. Mum, where have you been? Weve been searching everywhere!
Ive been on holiday. I have my own life and worries too, you know. And this is Philip. Well be living together.
She looked utterly bewildered. I dont understand.
Dont worry, love. Nothings wrong. Dont you want me to be happy?
Of course I do.
Good. Now, come insideIve got some souvenirs for you from my holiday.
Would you ever dare make such a drastic change in your life?
