Mum, where have you been? I’ve looked everywhere for you! I was on holiday. I might have my own problems and affairs. And this is Philip. We’re going to live together.

Darling, shall I expect you this Sunday? I asked my daughter.
Of course, Mum, she replied.

All week, I busied myself preparing for my childrens visit. I wanted to treat them to something delicious. The house was spotless, and Id set the table nicelythere was nothing left to do but wait for my guests. Yet when the appointed hour arrived, there was no sign of anyone. I began to worry something might have happened.

You see, I had set aside a rather generous amount of money to give to my children, knowing how much they dreamt of buying a new car. The thought of them not showing made me anxious, so I decided to ring my daughter. She picked up, her voice thick with sleep:

Mum, I completely forgot we said wed come over.
You mean Ive spent two days getting ready for your visit for nothing? Today of all daysmy birthday!
I promise well come tomorrow, we just got so busy. Im really sorry.

She sounded genuine, but as I closed the call, a wave of disappointment washed over me. The food Id carefully prepared seemed pointless now. In a fit of frustration, I cleared it all away. Then, spontaneously, I packed a bag, took the cash Id set aside, and booked a short holiday to Bath.

That break turned out to be just what I needed. One sunny afternoon, while I was strolling in the park, a gentleman approached and invited me for coffee. Philipa retired judgewith an easy confidence and captivating stories. I found myself telling him about my own life, about everything that hurt and everything that made me glad.

We grew close surprisingly fast. By the end of my trip, Philip asked if Id consider moving in with him.
I have a flat and a decent pension. We can enjoy ourselves togethergo to the cinema, take long walks, simply relax.

I hesitated. What about my children and grandchildren? But Philip reassured me:
Theyve made their own lives, and theyll come to visit us, he said gently.

Remembering how forgotten Id felt on my birthday, I agreed.

A week later, I returned home. To my surprise, there was a notice on my front door asking for help to find a missing woman.
Theyre looking for you, arent they? Philip observed.
It must be my daughter, I replied.
She didnt know youd gone on holiday?
No, she hadnt a clue.

Then, right on cue, my daughter appeared on the stairs.
Mum, where have you been? Weve been searching everywhere for you!
I was on holiday. Im allowed to have my own life and worries too, you know. And this is Philip. Well be living together.
I dont understand.
Dont fret, darling. Theres nothing wrong with me. Dont you want me to be happy?
Of course I do.
Good. Come in, Ive got some lovely souvenirs for you from my trip.

Would you have dared to make such a sharp turn?