Family Comes Before All Else

Family Above All

Yes, I really am going to give Alice half of everything we own together, Thomas stood at the window, his gaze following the leaves fluttering in the brisk London wind. It’s only fair.

Are you out of your mind! exclaimed Emily, slapping her palm on the oak table so hard the cutlery rattled. You can’t allow that, no way! All those years I put in for what? She just wants to bleed you dry! Can’t you see? It’s all written in her eyes she’s just waiting to grab as much as she can!

Thomas winced. This relentless pressure from Emily was fast wearing him down. Had he made the wrong choice all along? He ran a tired hand through his hair, the fatigue surging in like a tidal wave, drowning the last reserves of strength.

Emily, please he drew closer, sitting opposite with an earnest look, searching her eyes for a shred of understanding. Alice is the mother of my children. I can’t just erase her from our lives. We separated amicably, without rows. She isn’t demanding anything beyond her legal share she only wants stability for the kids. She wants them to have all they need, to never feel deserted

Stability? Emily scoffed, leaning back, the drumming of her scarlet nails on the table a sharp, irritating staccato. You mean a flat in Chelsea and a brand-new car? Shes using you! Youre nothing but a cash machine to her, Thomas. How can you not see it?

Thomas rubbed his face, feeling the pulse throb in his temples from the strain. Hed gone over and over the situation in his head, weighing every word, every detail, looking for a way out of the maze. The divorce had been brutal each step, each decision, echoing with pain. The official cause had been irreconcilable differences, but deep down, he knew the truth: It was all because of Emily. Young and dazzling, she blew in like a March storm, overturning his once-comfortable world.

Oddly enough, Thomas hadnt paid her much attention at first. Hed always been the model family man work, home, weekends at the park with the kids. Alice had never worked hed insisted on that. I want you to be happy, he would say, taking her hands, gazing into her soft eyes, to focus on yourself and the children. You both deserve the best. He remembered how she smiled then, her eyes bright with gratitude. Now, all he saw in her was a tired face and a dimmed stare.

Emily, on the other hand, hadnt seen just a man, but a ticket to the good life successful businessman, a nice house in Surrey, healthy bank account. How could one walk away from that? She circled patiently, choosing her moment, like a seasoned hunter on the trail. When the first tensions began at home little spats, misunderstandings piling up Emily was always conveniently nearby, offering sympathy, warm tea, words of comfort, as if she could warm not just the hands, but the soul.

Am I too hard on Alice? Thomas had wondered, trying to untangle his feelings. Do we need to change something? Start over, find a new way But those changes were not what hed hoped for, leading instead to this agonising crossroads.

Do you know what I think? Emily leaned forward, her eyes gleaming with self-assurance, her voice almost triumphant. Lets have the children with us. Imagine a great big family, you a doting father, me the loving stepmother. Well walk in Hyde Park, ride bikes, have picnics

Thomas looked at her closely. There was something hollow in her tone as if behind the pretty words there was nothing but emptiness. In a sudden vision, he saw her scowl at the noisy children, sigh irritably when one of them begged for playtime, or turn away when Elizabeth tried to hug her.

Are you truly ready for that? he asked, voice slow and heavy, every word weighed like gold. Ready for sleepless nights when someones ill? To help with homework that grows ever trickier? To do the school run, sit for hours at dance or footy practice, comfort them when life lets them down? Or do you just want the status wife of a successful businessman and mother to his children a pretty image for social media?

Emily hesitated, lips parting in surprise, eyes flickering with something not unlike fear as she tucked a loose blonde strand behind her ear.

Of course, Im ready she forced confidence into her voice I just need a bit of time to get used to it. Its not easy, you know

Time, Thomas echoed, with a bitter laugh. My children havent got that sort of time to spare. They need stability now. Parents present in their lives, not people who need to learn how to become them. I promised when they were born: Id protect them, love them, be their rock. I keep my promises.

At that moment, Emilys phone vibrated loudly in her handbag. She glanced at it, face draining of colour, fingers trembling as she snatched it up and hurried from the room, anxiety written plainly on her features.

***

The next morning, outside the little café on Chiswick High Road where Alice liked to spend her mornings, a stranger appeared. Alice was sipping her cappuccino, lost in a world of fiction, when a shadow fell across her table, disturbing her solitude.

So, still clinging to my man? came a brash voice, sending a chill down Alices spine.

She looked up in surprise, momentarily thrown by such brazen rudeness. In front of her stood a young, fashionably dressed woman, with garish makeup and a superior, cold glare. Her designer handbag seemed to scream its authenticity, and her heels clicked assertively against the pavement.

Your man? Sorry, Ive no idea what you mean, Alice replied coolly, though she had a hunch who this brash upstart was.

Oh, dont play dumb! spat the girl, moving closer until the overwhelming scent of perfume made Alice wince. Im talking about Thomas. Hes mine, you understand? And youve no right demanding half his assets. You always want too much! Just how much do you mean to take from him?

Alice kept her composure, observing the young womans white-knuckled grip on her bag, the slight quiver of her hands. Ah, I see, Alice thought to herself, a faint smile tugging at her lips. Worried the lifestyle wont be as rosy as you imagined?

Firstly, Alice straightened her back, meeting the womans gaze squarely, Thomas was never your property. Hes a free man, perfectly capable of making his own choices. Secondly, Ive asked for nothing more than whats due. I simply want my childrens welfare. And thirdly she paused, her confidence unmistakable are you so sure he will choose you? Do you truly know him as well as you believe?

Whats that supposed to mean? asked the girl warily, taking an unconscious step back, uncertainty now in her voice.

Exactly what it sounds like, Alice smiled, her expression imbued with wisdom and, perhaps, a hint of pity, as if she saw not a rival but a lost child. Thomas is a man of principles. He may make mistakes, be led astray, seduced by charm but when it comes to family? He will always choose family. Because for him, that isnt just a word; its the foundation of his world.

For an instant, the young woman froze; her face twisted with anger, lips trembling and eyes flashing with spite. It looked as though she might lash out, but instead, she released a sharp breath, clenching her fists so tight her knuckles went white.

Well see about that! she tossed out, spinning on her heel and stalking away, her high heels tapping out her irritation on the concrete.

Alice watched her go and shook her head. I wonder, she thought, noting the girls silhouette dissolve into the crowd, What other ordeals life has in store for me? And how could Thomas have ever been so taken with someone so cold? No warmth, no understanding She sighed, straightened her scarf, and headed for her car, though, despite herself, a flicker of hope remained in her heart: perhaps it could still be made right. Maybe Thomas would realise that family isnt glamour and riches, but love, support and loyalty.

***

A week later, someone rang Alices doorbell. She started, set her book aside, and made her way to the door, a sense of unease growing in her chest.

A woman stood on the step, dressed in a severe suit and clutching a folder, her face as unreadable as granite and eyes devoid of sympathy just a chilly, official detachment.

Good morning, Im from Social Services, she announced, flashing a snapped-shut pass. We received a report that your children have been left unattended for several days.

Alice felt an icy hand grip her insides, but outwardly she remained calm years of discipline keeping her feelings in check. She scanned the woman over: neat, grey suit, navy blue blouse, hair perfectly set almost unnaturally so. All rehearsed, Alice thought. Not a detail out of place, calculated right down to her gestures

Please, come in, she opened the door a little wider, her voice steely, but first, Ill need your surname and open identification. I need to check you are who you say you are. I have children, and I cant just let anyone in.

The woman hesitated, nearly imperceptibly faltering.

My surname isnt really relevant. Im here by official capacity

It is, Alice cut her off, holding her gaze firmly. All trace of softness vanished only resolve and a fierce determination remained. Its extremely relevant. If you refuse, Ill call the police. Theres a camera above the door; its recording every move and word.

The colour drained from the womans face, her mouth pulling tight and her grip tightening on the folder. She shot Alice a look brimming with frustrated rage, then turned, walking rapidly down the hallway, nearly sprinting for the lift.

Alice closed the door, then slumped onto a chair, her hands trembling ever so slightly as she forced herself to breathe deeply. Emily, she realised. Shes behind this trying to scare me, break my spirit, rob me of my rights as a mother She looked out the window, where her children, Matthew and Elizabeth, played in the garden their laughter light as they chased each other, building a sandcastle beneath the old beech tree. Matthew looked up, saw Alice at the window, and waved, his eyes shining. Elizabeth seized his hand and they twirled together in a carefree little dance.

Right then, Alice made a promise to herself: I wont let anyone destroy our family. Not Emily, not anyone. Ill fight for my children, their happiness, our future. The world can turn upside down, but I wont back down.

***

That evening, Thomas decided to pay Emily a visit after work. The day had been rough: endless meetings, urgent calls, a crisis threatening an important contract. He felt squeezed dry, but knew he had to clarify things, draw a line under it all. As he reached Emilys floor and raised his fist to knock, voices drifted through her half-opened door.

I cant do this anymore! a womans voice, shrill and near hysterical I almost got fired over this business! You promised it would be discreet, just a warning now Im facing investigations, interrogations! Do you have any idea whats at stake? My whole career might be on the line!

But it was just a warning, Emilys voice sounded panicked, brittle. We just needed to scare Alice, so shed drop her demands. Thomas would have sorted it for her I never thought it would spiral out of control!

Scare her? the other womans voice rose to a near-scream. You dragged me into blackmail! Im in social services, not a character in one of your games! If anyone finds out My reputation, my job all at risk!

Thomas froze. Suddenly he saw it all: Emily weaving intrigues, friends willing to risk anything for favours; himself naive, unwitting, allowing himself to be used. He recalled scenes Emily whispering honeyed words in his ear while plotting behind his back, giving promises of love hiding only calculation.

He stepped away from the door, numb, chest filled with a mix of anger and shame. How could I be so blind? Betraying Alice and the children for a fantasy? He remembered Elizabeths hug goodbye, Matthews earnest gaze up at him. He knew what he needed to do.

He strode back to the door, knocked hard. The voices inside stopped dead; in the silence, he could hear his own heart thudding. Emilys face, when she answered, went chalk white, eyes wide in terror.

Thomas youve got it all wrong she stammered, voice shaking, lips quivering as she involuntarily retreated a step backwards.

He didnt wait for an invitation, stepping into the flat, the door clicking shut behind with a final, fateful sound. On the sofa sat a stocky woman in a service uniform the same one from the hallway. She snatched up her bag, nearly dropping it in her haste, avoiding his eyes.

I Id best be going

Please, Thomas interrupted, his tone steely Please tell me everything. From the very beginning. I want the truth, the whole truth.

The woman hesitated, casting a frightened look at Emily, whose fingers knotted the hem of her blouse, a barely noticeable sheen of panic on her face.

Theres not much to tell, the social worker muttered, twisting her handbag strap. Emily asked me to help Im in social services, so I was supposed to frighten Alice I never wanted this, but she begged, said itd be clean, no trouble

Enough! Thomas’ sharp tone cut her off like a whip, both women flinching. He turned to Emily, his voice as cold and unyielding as steel. So this was your plan. Blackmail, deception, intimidation Did you really think Id be part of this? That Id stand by while you destroyed the lives of those I love?

Emily looked utterly stricken, eyes glistening with tears, but Thomas felt nothing but a hollow ache.

Thomas, please she edged forward, hand reaching out, but he stepped away. I only wanted us to be together! To have a real family I thought it was the only way

A real family? he let out a bitter laugh, full of pain. You dont even know what that means. Family isnt houses, status, or curated online photos. Its trust, support, honesty. Its giving everything so those you love can be happy. And youve made a farce of it, turning people into pawns, twisting feelings for your own ends.

He glanced around the room, suddenly struck by how alien it all felt loud curtains that once seemed stylish now felt garish, trendy knickknacks empty, even the perfume that once drew him in, now cloyed, thick and suffocating like poison.

Do you know whats saddest? Thomas said quietly, his voice trembling with the weight of disappointment I almost believed we could be happy. I nearly forgot home, Alice, the children where real happiness lies. Youve shown me what all these promises are worth when all thats behind them is calculation. Youve shown me the price of falsehood.

Emily opened her mouth, but he lifted a hand to silence her.

Dont. Ive decided. Were over. And be warned if you, or your friends, try to harm my family again, Ill go straight to the police. Ill protect those I love whatever the cost.

With that, he left for the lift. His footsteps echoed down the corridor, counting the last seconds of this unhappy chapter. His head swam with thoughts, but in his heart, there was a sudden sense of relief as if an enormous burden had finally been thrown off, letting him breathe again, see clearly. Hed finally woken up.

***

That evening, Alice was surprised to see Thomas at the door. She was just pouring the childrens tea when the doorbell pierced the peace.

When she opened the door, she froze there was Thomas, holding a huge bouquet of white lilies her favourite.

Im sorry, he said simply, meeting her gaze. In his eyes was such honesty and remorse, Alice felt her heart twist. I was blind and foolish. Family is the most important thing in the world to me. I want to come home. If youll let me. I dont deserve it, but please let me put things right.

Alice studied him for a long while seeing the new lines at his eyes, the silver in his hair, his shoulders bowed under the weight of guilt. But in his eyes there flickered the same sincerity, the same warmth shed fallen for years ago.

Come in, she said at last, opening the door wider, feeling something inside her begin to thaw. Weve got a lot to talk about.

They went into the kitchen, Thomas placing the lilies in a vase on the antique table. The room filled with their delicate fragrance, whisking Alice straight back to the days when they first fell in love. The children came down at once Matthew with a football, Elizabeth clutching her teddy.

Dad! they shouted, running to him. Matthew nearly dropped the ball, Elizabeth almost losing the bear, but neither cared.

Thomas knelt to hug them tightly, as if afraid theyd vanish.

Ive missed you so much he whispered, tears in his eyes, breathing in their familiar scent and feeling their small arms around him. Ill never leave again. I promise.

Alice stood by, watching, warmth flooding her heart. She stepped forward and laid a hand on Thomas shoulder.

We missed you too, she said softly, and there was so much tenderness in her voice, Thomas looked up and saw in her eyes what hed feared lost for good love, forgiveness, hope.

At that moment, everything fell back into place. Thomas understood at last no temptation, no glittering promise was worth losing this family, these arms, this home where he truly belonged.

***

Back in her now-empty flat, Emily sat on the floor against the wall, hugging her knees. Her mobile lay silent friends had all but vanished after the scandal, calls and texts gone unanswered.

What have I done? What was it all for? Thoughts swirled in her mind. She remembered first seeing Thomas walking with his kids, laughter in his voice, the children hanging on his every word. She had longed to be a part of that warmth, to matter to someone. Instead of building something of her own, shed tried to steal what belonged to another. And lost it all.

Soon the flat would be gone Thomas had told the landlady he wouldnt be paying anymore. Her friends had shunned her. Most painfully of all, shed traded her shot at genuine love for a fleeting taste of luxury. In the mirror, she saw only her pale, tear-stained face, tangled hair: Who am I? she wondered. Whats left of that hopeful girl who once dreamed of love?

Today I learnt this: family is everything. Nothing else can fill the space they occupy in your heart. Losing sight of that is the surest way to lose yourself. And no amount of comfort or glamour is worth the price of losing those who truly love you.