Oh, Mum, are you frying fish again? asked Alice as she poked her head into the kitchen.
Yes, dear, but Ive opened the windows and put the extractor fan on, replied Margaret.
For the past four months, since her daughter moved in, Margaret had been hearing comments like these several times a day.
Youve made dinner too salty, or you put my clothes in the wrong place. Or the telly in your room is too loud.
Margaret hadnt even noticed how shed started tiptoeing around her own house. She tried to do everything quietly and discreetly, so as not to disturb Alice and her husband.
At first, it all seemed fine
After the wedding, Alice and her husband decided to live on their own. They rented a flat and visited only at weekends. It made sense: they both had jobs and their own lives.
Then, one day, Margaret felt unwell. The neighbours called an ambulance. Within minutes, Alice had arrived as well. When Margaret was discharged from the hospital, her daughter surprised her with these words:
We have a little surprise for you. I think youll like it. Youll find out when you get home.
Margaret walked through the front door and immediately noticed bags in the hallway.
Weve talked it over and decided that from now on, well live with you. Well look after you.
Margaret was taken aback by her childrens behaviour.
At first, Alice really did look after her mumshe cleaned, cooked, and took care of the laundry. But after two months of living together, Alice forgot why shed moved back home in the first place.
Margaret got her strength back. She began doing everything herself again. While Alice and her husband were out at work, she cooked and cleaned.
Her daughter had asked her more than once to take care of herself, but Margaret assured Alice she was doing perfectly well.
Soon, Alice and her husband spotted all the perks of living with Margaret: no rent to pay, the house always clean, and meals ready without lifting a finger.
Mum, our friends are coming round today. Why dont you pop over to the neighbours for a cuppa? Youll have a nice natter, and we can relax a bit, Alice suggested one evening.
Margaret didnt feel like going out, especially as her friend Sheila next door turned in early. It was still warm outside, so she decided to sit on the bench near the house and get some fresh air. Time passed, and the guests showed no sign of leaving. Margaret wanted to go to bed and rest but stubbornly waited for her daughter to call her back in.
A neighbour, Frank, took his dog for a walk and, half an hour later, walked by again, finding Margaret still sitting there.
Excuse me, are you alright? Frank asked.
Yes, Im fine. My children have friends round, and I dont want to be in their way.
I live on the ground floor. Im sure you remember me, he said.
Of course, I do.
They had crossed paths many times, but only ever exchanged polite greetings. Franks wife had passed away not long ago. His children lived elsewhere.
Why dont you come in for a cup of tea? Its a bit chilly. You can let your daughter know youre with me.
Margaret rang Alice, but she didnt pick up. Clearly, she didnt fancy checking in on her mum.
Alright then replied Margaret.
They drank tea and chatted. Suddenly, Alice called:
Mum, where are you? Our friends have gone ages ago. Were trying to get ready for bed and youre nowhere to be seen.
Alices voice was filled with annoyance once again. Margaret couldnt understand what shed done wrong this time. She started getting ready to go home. Frank walked her to the communal door.
I only have to go up two flights, Margaret said lightly.
Even so, Ill walk with you. Ill feel better that way, said Frank.
From that day on, Margaret found herself visiting Frank more and more often. Theyd have tea together or cook a meal. Some days, Frank would prepare something from one of his recipes. On this particular day, Margaret was at Franks again. It was her son-in-laws birthday and they had guests round.
Your flat is so peaceful and calm, she said one day.
You could always stay here for good, Frank offered.
He looked at her in a way that made it clear he was serious.
Ill think about it, Margaret answered with a smile.
Though deep down, she already knew she would say yes.
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