Sorry, love, for snapping at you earlier, she said hurriedly, trying to smooth things over. I didnt mean it harshly, I was just caught up in the moment. Maybe you could pop round sometime? Victors still on his own after you two split, and he hasnt found his footing yetjust stuck in video games
Evelyn and Victor had been together for almost two years. To Evelyn it felt like a serious thing; she was often over at Victors family home, where they welcomed her politely but without much warmth. She thought they had a solid future. Victor, though a bit lighthearted, had charm and could be quite determined when he wanted to be.
Everything fell apart when Victor flunked his crucial English ALevel. Hed been slacking off during the lockdown, bingeplaying games and neglecting his studies, and now he was facing the threat of being expelled.
In the heat of the crisis, Evelyn let slip what shed been holding back, turning to Victors mum:
I cant be with a man who isnt pulling his weight. I need someone who can stand on his own. Im not going to be anyones housewife; we should share the chores and the earnings.
Her words hung in the air, instantly throwing their future into doubt.
Victors mother took it as a personal affront. Shed spent her whole life looking after her husband and son, believing her role was to care, not to demand results. Now she expected Evelyn to behave the same way.
Honestly, love? She doesnt want to be a housewife? A proper lady should keep the hearth warm, and a man should be the head of the house! she scoffed. Evelyn kept quiet, not wanting to fuel the argument. After that, the door was barely opened for her. Their contact dwindled to secret texts, occasional calls, and brief meetups in neutral cafés. Victor missed seeing her, but instead of being honest he fell back on manipulation.
Evelyn, we need to talk to my mum, he pleaded over the phone. You have to tell her you dont actually feel that way. Im tired of hiding. Can we just make peace with my parents?
Evelyn shot back, Why should I prove anything to your mum? She didnt raise me. This is your problem, not mine. Why should I bend over backwards?
He answered, Because you love me and I love you. Its the only way to fix things. If you dont, well lose each other forever
With a heavy heart, Evelyn agreed for love she was willing to take the humiliating step of confronting his mother.
But it didnt go as shed hoped.
When she arrived, Victor let her into the hallway and, moments later, his father appeared.
Victor, whats this girl doing here? he barked.
Victor stumbled, and Evelyn felt her face go pale. The question sounded as if she were a random acquaintance, not his girlfriend.
Dad, Evelyn, we, Victor started, but his father cut him off.
I see who she is. Get her out!
From the living room, Victors mother shouted, Whos making all that noise? Victor, whos with you?
The father, ignoring Evelyn, tossed a harsh line, The one who tried to teach you how to live.
Evelyn realised she was not welcome. Anger and humiliation surged, and she reacted on instinct.
Im leaving, and you stay here, you pathetic, motherloving wimp! she hissed, storming out and slamming the door behind her.
Victor didnt even try to stop her.
Just as she stepped into the stairwell, her phone rang. Victors voice was raw, not apologetic but furious.
What did you say? You ruined everything!
What did I ruin? Your dad just treated me like a callgirl!
It doesnt matter who he put me where! You caused a scene! Now Mums furious and Dad wants me to stay away from you!
He then dropped the final blow: And guess what? I wont even get to sit at the computer any more.
Evelyn felt the sting turn into cold resolve.
Youre blaming me because you cant play your games? Your familys mess is your mess. You should have dealt with it yourself, not made me the scapegoat.
It became clear he hadnt changed still an immature lad looking for someone to blame. He hadnt defended her at all.
I cant put up with this any longer, Vic. This is over. No more contact, she said firmly, blocking him everywhere. The breakup was sharp, but necessary. His familys drama was his cross to bear, not hers.
A year later, Evelyn had moved on and started fresh. Shed met someone new, and after three months they were already talking about marriage.
One afternoon, she ran into Victors mother, Irene, at the local supermarket.
Evelyn! My dear, hello! Irene rushed over, hugging her. Its been ages! How are you? I heard you and Victor split. Hes gone off the deep end with his games, isnt he? No job, just the computer. He used to be so responsible when you were together Come over sometime!
Evelyn managed a polite smile. Thanks, Irene, but Im busy work, home
Irenes eyes fell on the ring on Evelyns finger.
And whats this? Are you married?
No, were only engaged. Well have the wedding this summer.
The fauxmaternal warmth vanished from Irenes face in an instant.
So thats it, then. Good thing Victor dumped you! We dont need someone like you around!
Evelyn shrugged, turned back to the shelves, and thought to herself that maybe Irene was right about one thing: it was better shed walked away from Victor sooner. But still, a tiny part of her felt a pang for the time shed wasted on him.
