The Jealousy Trap

The Trap of Jealousy

Eleanor sat cross-legged on her bed, flicking through her social media feed with practiced distraction. It was then that her sister stepped into the room. Without even looking up, Eleanor fired off in an offhand tone, as though stating the most obvious thing in the world:

Martha, I need a new phone.

Martha, who was busy gathering up her scattered things in preparation for her departure, barely glanced over. Her response was calm and matter-of-fact:

Ask Mum.

Eleanor snorted and finally looked up from her screen, an irritated glint in her eyes.

She wont give me the money, she retorted. She says I want too much.

Martha folded the last of her belongings into her bag, straightened up, and fixed her gaze on Eleanor. There wasnt much anger there; just an exasperated certainty.

Shes right, in a way, Martha replied levelly. If you want to buy something, earn the money yourself. Im not always going to be around, you know.

Eleanor straightened up sharply as if stung, her face flush with indignation.

Im only nineteen, and Im still in uni, you know! she shot back, her voice rising. Why should I have to work as well? Ive always been given help, and thats normal!

Martha sighed but chose not to argue any further. Instead, she reminded her:

Im getting married next month. Weddings cost a fortune. You could at least be happy for meIm starting my own family.

She slung her bag over her shoulder, headed for the door, and left without waiting for a reply. The sound of the door slamming echoed through the room and left Eleanor alone with her thoughts. A wave of irritation grew within Martha; she felt her sister never really understood how the world worked outside their little cocoon.

Eleanor was left holding her battered old mobile. Her expression softened a touch, but her stubborn spark hadnt gone out. She muttered under her breath, just loud enough to hear herself:

Well see about that

A sly little smile crept onto Eleanors lips. She reclined onto her pillow, looking up at the ceiling, and murmured to herself:

As long as I need you, youre not going anywhere. It doesnt matter what I have to do to make it so.

Schemes were already forming in her mindstill vague, but determined, enough to make her feel in control once again.

Since childhood, Eleanor was used to having her way. Her parents doted on her endlessly. For five long years theyd dreamt of a second child, and when Eleanor finally arrived, they showered her with adoration and attention. A blessed surprise, they used to call her at home, and the nickname seemed to set the tone for her entire life. Whatever she wanted, she got.

Over time, this became a trait. Eleanor barely gave a thought to other peoples feelingsshe simply knew: the world would adapt itself to her. Martha had long ago resigned herself to the role of eternal helper. For as long as Eleanor could remember, Martha was always theredoing her homework, explaining the tricky bits, and later, even helping her get into a good university. For Martha, it was just an expression of sisterly care. To Eleanor, it only proved further that things would always work out as she liked.

She never had any trouble with money, either. Mum regularly transferred her an allowancea decent bit, enough for her never to want for anything. If she needed extra, shed just ring Martha. Her sister, without complaint, would dip into her own savings and hand over the cash, no questions asked. It was always like that until Jack came into Marthas life.

Jack was nothing like any of Marthas previous boyfriends. He was charming, smart, and had a dry wit and clear convictions. For Martha, he was a real-life Prince Charmingdependable, caring, and always there when it mattered. She often thought how truly happy shed become since meeting him.

But, as is so often the case, even fairytales have their shadows. Jack had a jealous streak. He never kicked up rows or tracked Marthas every move, but his wariness showed itself in little thingscertain questions, the way he spoke, the long, measuring looks. Martha tried to brush it aside, believing in time it would settle, that his jealousy was simply a sign of deep affectionsomething she could learn to live with.

Life trundled on. The registry office application had been submitted, the wedding venue reserved, invites sent to guests. Martha threw herself into wedding prepdress-shopping, menu-tasting, planning every detail of the ceremony. Each day brought something new to be joyful about. She never guessed the real trials were still ahead

**********************

Eleanor toyed with her mobile for a long time before finally dialling the number. Jack. Her sisters fiancé. The man whod made Martha glow for months. But Eleanor wasnt in the mood for sentimentalitiesshe knew precisely what she was after.

She drew a deep breath and pressed call. Her heart hammered, but her voice rang out calm and even, almost friendly:

Hi Jack, its Eleanor. Listen, I know Marthas busy, but I really miss her. Havent seen her in ages.

A pause stretched on the other end of the line, and Jacks startled tone came through:

What do you mean? Isnt she with you?

Eleanor squinted, relishing the small, satisfying chill inside her. Gotcha.

I told you, havent seen her all week, she replied, working up her best impression of innocent confusion. Whyd you think she was here?

Because Martha hasnt been home half the week, Jacks voice hardened, and she says shes at yours!

Oh! Eleanor paused, as if only now realising the gravity. I really dont know what to say Look, Ill call you back, okay? Bye!

She hung up without waiting for a reply. Her hands shook slightly, but it was a pleasant tremorthe tingle of anticipation. Everything was falling into place!

She pictured Jack now, brow furrowed as he gripped his phone, the flicker of jealousy buildinghe was a passionate man, prone to flares of temper, not the sort to calmly seek out explanations. He was probably already confronting Martha, and when he didnt believe her excuses, hed kick her out.

And where would Martha go, when the door slammed in her face? To her sister. To Eleanor.

Eleanor imagined the scene: Martha at her flats doorstep, distraught, suitcase in hand, desperate for help and comfort. And Eleanor, gracious as ever, would welcome her with a hug, sit her down at the table, pour a cup of tea, and listen to all her woes. Shed be kind, gentle, understanding.

Once Martha was a bit calmerwhen she realised how much she needed her sisterEleanor would gently remind her of that new phone shed been wanting. This time, Martha couldnt possibly say no. How could she turn away from the one person whod just rescued her?

Eleanor leant back on her chair, still gripping her phone. The plan was coming together. All that remained was to wait for events to follow her script. And she had no doubt they would

*********************

Martha came home in an excellent mood. That morning shed sorted the wedding cake design with the baker, and on her way back picked up Jacks favourite cream cakes, picturing their own little taster evening. The key turned easily in the lock, the door swung openand the cheerful mood disintegrated instantly.

The first thing she sawher two suitcases, parked right at the doorway. And behind them was Jack, his face twisted in anger. Martha barely recognised him: usually kind and warm, now sharp and cold-eyed, lips pressed tight.

Jack, whats going on? Why have you packed my things? Martha asked, genuinely puzzled. Barely two hours before, theyd been happily discussing wedding plans, sharing laughs, making dreams.

Get out of my flat, he snapped, kicking one suitcase so it thudded against the wall. Cant stand your type!

What have I done, gone to see my sister? Martha stammered, unable to get her bearings. I honestly dont understand!

You werent there, Jack spat, clenching his fists so hard his knuckles whitened. Eleanor just rang me a minute ago, saying she wished youd come see her, that she hadnt seen you all week. So tell mewhere were you, if not with her?

The world seemed to tilt. Martha tried desperately to make sense of Jacks words, to find even a grain of logic.

Thats rubbish. She couldnt have said that Martha mumbled, still clinging to the hope this was just some dreadful misunderstanding. Maybe Jack misheard? Maybe Eleanor was joking and hed taken it seriously?

But Jacks expression held no laughter. He stared straight at her, cold and resolved. The last doubts vanished.

I think she regrets calling now, he said with a chilling smirk. Take your stuff and go. Or do you need help?

His voice was so detached, Martha felt as if she were facing a stranger. The Jack she loved would never say such things. Never glare at her like that.

In silence, Martha moved towards her bags, a cold emptiness spreading inside. Her hands trembled as she gripped the handle of one case. Racing through her mind: How could this have happened? Why would Eleanor do this? What happens now? No answersjust a weight of confusion and heartache.

Jack meant businessshe could tell by his hard, decisive movements. Giving her no time or chance to argue, he shoved her onto the landing along with her luggage. Roughly, he snatched the keys from her hand, hurting her fingers in the process. The flat door slammed behind her with a thunderous banga sentence, not just a goodbye.

Martha stood in the hallway, clutching her suitcase handle, hot tears rolling unchecked down her cheeks. What had just happened? Nearly a year togetherhopes, dreams, cosy eveningsdestroyed in an instant. But the cruelest part: she hadnt even been given the chance to explain. Not even a single word. Just a cold verdict and a door slammed shut.

She leaned back against the wall, trying to gather her thoughts. There was a heaviness in her chest, like a pile of stones. It slowly dawned: Jack hadnt, for a moment, tried to clarify, to ask, to think straighthed acted on hurt pride and bruised ego, let common sense drown in a wave of anger.

For a while, Martha just stood there, unable to move. Then, with shaking hands, she pulled out her mobile. The screen glowed, showing her tear-streaked face. She called her sisterthe only person she could think to reach out to.

Did you speak to Jack? Martha blurted the moment Eleanor answered.

Why would I talk to your fiancé? Especially behind your back? Eleanors voice sounded far too cheery, a bit too pleased. It set Marthas nerves on edge. Had a row, have you? Well, at least you know Ill always be here for you.

Martha hung up without another word, swallowing the lump in her throat. She still couldnt believe Eleanor could be so underhanded. Didnt want to believe it. How could her own sister, her childhood companion and confidant, do something like this?

Moving like someone in a trance, Martha set off towards the lift, suitcase in tow. There was nothing here for her now. Work? Shed find another jobno big deal. Friends? She hadnt had time for proper friendships in the last yearall her energy went into her future with Jack, the wedding plans. Sister? Now, Martha realised clearly: Eleanor was an adult now, no longer her responsibility. It was high time to stop being her safety net, solving her problems, indulging every whim.

She headed for the lift, doing her best not to look at the door of the flat where shed once felt so happy. There was a void inside, but alongside it came a strange sense of freedom. Freedom to start afresheven if it meant pain and disappointment at first.

That night, she stayed in a hotel. Eleanor was in the rented flat, and Martha simply couldnt bring herself to go there. So she had little choice

*******************

The next day, Martha went into the office after her split with Jack. She steeled herself, doing her utmost not to let anyone see her distress. Her eyes were still puffy, but shed done her best with concealer. She refused to let her guard down at workthe one place she could focus and forget her pain, if only for a while.

She headed straight to her bosss office. Her heart thudded, but she’d made her decision: she was going to resign. There was nothing tying her to this city now. The job was good, her colleagues friendly, but she could not stay in a place where every corner held memories of Jack.

Her boss, Mr. Green, immediately sensed something was wrong. Hed long valued her as a responsible, talented member of the firmnever late with a project, always able to liaise with the toughest clients and suggest sensible solutions.

Martha, are you alright? You dont look yourself, he enquired kindly, peering over his glasses.

Mr. Green, Id like to hand in my resignation, she managed to say, voice steady despite her nerves.

He leaned back, massaging his chin, thoughtful.

Lets not be too hasty. Clearly, youre going through something difficult. But lets give it a bit of thought. Youre an asset to the companyI dont want to lose you.

Martha opened her mouth to protest, but he held up a hand.

I have an idea. We have a vacancy just opened at our Leeds office. Its a more senior position, with better pay and real prospects for advancement. Wed take care of the relocation, and youd have a company flat to start. Really, think about itits a big step for your career.

Martha paused. Leeds. A new city. A clean slate. Maybe that was exactly what she needed. But

Thank you, Mr. Green, she said quietly, gathering herself. I ought to tell you: Im planning to go on maternity leave soon.

The room fell silent. Martha braced herself for disappointment, even disapproval. But Mr. Green just smiled.

Congratulations, Martha! Thats wonderful news.

She looked up in surprise.

Really? You dont thinkwell, wont it be a problem for work?

Of course itll be a temporary disruption. But afterwards…youll be back, full of new energy, and your job will be waiting for you. We value people like you. Give the move some thoughtits a rare chance to start anew, with support.

Martha felt the burden on her shoulders lighten, just a little. Someone believed in hersomeone was offering the chance to start again, no matter what.

Her mind was made up.

All right, Mr. Green. Ill take the transfer.

That evening she sat in her hotel room, laptop open, finger hovering over the Buy Ticket button on the airline website.

Shed never managedor chosento tell Jack about the pregnancy. Shed heard the news only days before everything unravelled. Now, it was pointless. He would never believe the child was his…and would it matter?

She pressed Confirm. The screen flashed: Payment successful. One ticket. One way. Towards a new life.

Twilight was falling outside. Martha closed the laptop, went to the window, and peered out. Somewhere, out there in Leeds, waited a city where nobody knew hera place without painful memories or betrayals. Just her, and her future.

Tomorrow shed pack her bags. Tomorrow would start her fresh chapter.

***********************

Three years passed since that fight. At first, Jack was confident. He pictured Martha realising her mistake and coming backcontrite, tearful, begging forgiveness. He even imagined keeping up the pretence of being unforgiving for a bit, before magnanimously taking her back: Alright, but this is your last chance!

He waited. A day. A week. A month. But Martha never came. She didnt call. Didnt even try to get in touch. At first, he found it satisfyinga sign of guilt and fear, perhapsbut then it felt troubling. And then painful.

One day, a mutual friend happened to mention Martha was transferred to another city.

Shes gone, the friend said matter-of-factly. Leeds, I think. Top job, real prospects.

Jack just nodded quietly, pretending it didnt matter. But inside, everything flipped upside down. He finally understood: she wasnt coming back. Ever.

Meanwhile, Eleanor wouldnt leave him be. She showed up frequently, scruffy and pouty, demanding:

Give me Marthas number! Shes blocked me. Can you believe it? Im here by myself, and she…

Looking at her, Jack realised for the first time just how shallow she was. Her requests sounded forced; there was never any genuine worry in her eyes. Only the next favour she expected. Slowly, Jack pieced it together: Eleanor had set him up all along. Shed called, said what she did, knowing exactly how hed react.

You know, he said at last, tiredly looking her in the face, I dont want to see you again. You ought to start sorting your own life out.

Eleanor huffed, turned, and swept out, slamming the door behind her. Jack stood alone in the hallway and experienced a peculiar relief. He finally saw who hed let into his lifeand who hed lost.

Some months later, work took Jack to Leeds, Marthas new city. He was only there for a day, but in the evening, wanting to clear his head, he went for a walk in the local park. Autumn was especially lovely: trees ablaze with gold and rust, drifts of leaves crunching underfoot, the air fresh with a hint of chill.

Hands in his pockets, Jack watched dusk fall over the rooftops, thinking how strangely things turn out, how sometimes we destroy what matters most because we trust the wrong people.

Then he saw them.

A little family: a mother, father, and a toddler girl. Mum was laughing as she tossed maple leaves into the air, Dad holding the girls hand while she leapt and squealed in delight, trying to catch the swirling colours.

Jack stopped in his tracks, unable to look away. The little girl was captivating: a mass of honey-blonde curls, rosy cheeks, and the most brilliant blue eyesjust like Martha. He caught his breath. In that moment, he saw what he might have had, what hed destroyed with his own hands.

He stood motionless, watching the happy triothen, his heart lurched. The mother turned, and he recognised her.

It was Martha.

She had hardly changed. The same clear eyes, the same warm smile, only now there was an added maturity, a certain calmness about her, which suited her perfectly.

Jack watched as Martha knelt beside her daughter, adjusted her hat, whispered something gentle and affectionate. Beside her, the mana little under average height, but with kind eyes and a warm smileplaced a hand on Marthas shoulder, and she leaned into him, trusting and secure.

Something twisted inside Jacknot anger, not resentment, but a quiet, bitter sadness. Clearly, this stranger had given Martha what Jack never could: peace of mind, certainty, love without suspicion or unreasonable demands.

Martha laughedopen and brightand took her daughters hand. The family moved off, trailing a swirl of coloured leaves. Jack watched them go, realising this wasnt just a chance encounter. It was closure. Final and complete.

He could have gone over. Could have said, Martha, I was wrong. Im sorry. But for what? To disturb her peace? To rake up old hurt he himself had inflicted?

No.

Let things be.

She was happy. Genuinely happy. Oddly, that gave him a measure of comfort. Life had moved forward for both of them.

Jack lingered a little longer in the shadow, watching as the family disappeared down the path. Then, at last, he turned and walked away in the opposite direction. Leaves whispered underfoot, and in his mind the thought echoed quietly:

Let her be happy. Even if its without me…