Husband Needed Urgently – Apply Now!

A Husband Is Urgently Needed

Mum, you really need to find yourself a new husband. Really, really soon!

Claire nearly dropped her mug of tea, spilling a little onto the tablecloth. She carefully set the mug down, cleared her throat, and looked steadily at her daughter.

Would you mind explaining? she asked calmly. Wheres this coming from?

Jenny shifted from foot to foot, her gaze dropping as she traced the pattern on the carpet with her toe. She looked awkward, but resolutely determined.

Its just… Well, today I told Dad you had a boyfriend, she said with a heavy sigh. Hes been grilling me non-stop! He keeps asking if youve met someone yet. Every time I said no, hed start rambling about what a huge mistake you made leaving him, how you dont really understand life if you let such an amazing man slip away…

She glanced up at her mum, her eyes full of frustration and a hint of anger towards her dad.

And, he keeps saying youll realise how wrong you were and come crawling back. Like, apparently, you wont ever find anyone better. Thats when I snapped and said youd actually met someone.

Claire raked a hand through her hair, and the familiar tones of her ex flooded her mindhis showy confidence, the way he could turn any conversation into a declaration of his own perfection.

I can imagine the colourful language he used, she said, a wry smile playing about her lips. Even now he cant accept I left himhim, the flawless man. Honestly, sometimes I get the impression Dave only invites you round on weekends to boost his ego with all that posturing. He doesnt care about spending time with you so much as collecting new gossip. Its all just to make himself feel better.

Jenny sighed, collapsing onto the sofa and tucking her feet underneath her in the way she always did. Leaning into the cushion, she absently stroked the upholstery, collecting her thoughts.

I think so too, she said, gazing off into the distance. I sit there for ninety minutes listening to how fantastic he is. The rest of the time, I could be invisiblehe never even asks how Im getting on at school, or if I need anything…

She said it as if describing her daily routine: get up, breakfast, school, homework. For Jenny, it had long since become a matter of factso familiar it barely produced any reaction.

She sank back, eyes fixed on the ceiling as she replayed her conversation with her father: as usual, the visit started with a monologue about his latest achievementthis time, how brilliantly hed handled negotiations at work. Then a run-down of future plans, the obstacles he faced, and how everyone at the office underestimates him. Ninety minutes of Daves life storyJenny even checked her watch, determined to tell Mum about the sheer length of it.

When she tried to mention her maths competition at school, he merely nodded absent-mindedly and immediately switched subjects back to himself. Well done, Jenny, but when I was your age I was alreadyand off hed go again about how much more impressive his schooldays were.

Jenny rolled her shoulders, dismissing the recollection. Shed become used to it: her father had always been self-absorbed, his family always at the edge of his visionimportant, but never quite worth his undivided attention.

Any conversation would inevitably come back to his own hassles and triumphs. If Mum mentioned feeling tired, he would instantly start listing his own work struggles. If Jenny talked about her friends, her father found a way to steer the story back to his own, which were, of course, far more interesting. Other peoples concerns simply didnt register, or were brushed aside.

Jenny never understood how Mum put up with fifteen years of it. Hed always seemed utterly wrapped up in his own reflection! Maybe, she thought, Mum stuck with him for Jennys benefit, so she wouldnt grow up without a dad. As a child, Jenny had genuinely believed her father would change one day, that hed finally pay attention to their lives and care how they felt… But the years rolled on, nothing shifted, and it was only after the divorce that Jenny realised how much easier life was without him aroundnobody fighting for the spotlight, nobody belittling what mattered to her.

So, why exactly do I need to start hunting for a partner? Claires voice was sharper than she intended. You said it, sure, but whats the harm?

You dont get it, when Dad heard, he went totally mad! Jenny grimaced, gripping a stray cushion to her chest. First he went pale, then beetroot-red, then started shouting so much the neighbour came over! Honestly, it scared me a bit.

She paused, recalling the scene: her fathers unusually high-pitched, breaking voice; fists clenched so tight his knuckles whitened; his eyes darting in agitation. He looked ready to explode with rage.

He wanted namesdemanded to know who it was you were seeing, what he looked like, everything. I just said you didnt want him knowing. I wouldnt be surprised if he starts phoning and shouting soon.

Claire turned slowly, leaning on the windowsill as she watched her daughter. She could already anticipate the level of drama Dave would stir up. Good effort, that girl of hers…

She dropped onto the sofa beside Jenny and pulled her in for a hug. Not there was anything to be done nowwhats been said, cant be taken back.

Whyd you make it up? she asked softly, rocking Jenny slightly. We were getting by just fine. Now Ill have to listen to his performances again. Might have to switch my phone off!

Jenny wriggled free, sitting up and fixing Claire with a serious look. Her eyes were bright with conviction.

Because youre amazing! Jenny declared. Youre smart and pretty and have tons of friendsand men like you, dont pretend I dont notice! Dad just slags you off all the time and Im sick of it!

Claire ran her fingers gently through Jennys hair, her face soft and a little bemused.

I see, sweetheart, I see, she smiled. Honestly, I thought you wouldnt want me to start anything new after I split from your dad. Its only been half a year.

It wasnt easy to get the words out. Deep down, shed worried Jenny might take a new relationship as betrayal, or as Mum trying to replace her dad. Claire peered closely at Jenny, looking for the smallest hint of unease.

Nonsense! Jenny snorted, so forcefully that Claire had to grin. All that matters is that youre happy!

Arms folded, Jenny was smiling in a way that was startlingly mature, ready to defend her opinion without backing down.

Claire gazed at her daughter, slowly feeling her anxieties dissolve. Jennys certainty soothed her doubtsmaybe she really was overthinking the past, too anxious about the future.

You are such a clever girl, Claire said, pulling Jenny in again. Thank you for looking after your old mum.

Jenny nestled contentedly into her side. At that moment, they both felt something warm and peaceful settle between them, like their little family was growing stronger day by day.

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

Claire sat at her desk, trying to focus on her quarterly report. The words swam as a plunging headachejust hinting at breakfast, now pounding away by lunchthrobbed at her temples. She massaged her head, desperate for relief, the motion slow and mechanicalshed done it a dozen times already.

After a moments debate, Claire asked a colleague to pop to the chemistjust two minutes walk from the office. She washed down the painkillers with a glass of water, but it made no difference. Her head felt stuffed with lead; every soundthe keyboard clacking, the air con humming, distant laughter in the corridorsent sharp aches through her skull.

At that moment, the security guard poked his head round the door, face polite but eyes wary.

Ms. Willis, theres someone here for you, he said, holding the door ajar. Your ex-husbands insisting on seeing you. Will you come down, or should we help him on his way?

Claire froze. Irritation washed over her, mingling with exhaustion. She drew a long breath, keeping her face composed.

Ill come, she said, rising from her seat. Sorry to trouble you.

She cursed inwardly. Perfect timing. Already a dreadful dayhead pounding, work piling upand now Dave decides to turn up unannounced. Why hadnt he called first? Why did he have to barge in at work, and in front of everyone? Was he really planning a scene here?

She walked steadily towards the lifthurrying only made her headache spike. The corridor was busy: colleagues rushing about, laughter by the coffee machine, chatter at the project board. She passed them stiffly, feeling the tension pulling her shoulders tight.

In the reception hall, Dave was instantly visible. He was pacing, arms waving wildly, stepping up to and away from the desk. He gesticulated at the security guards, sometimes raising his voice. Their patience was clearly wearing thin.

What do you want? Claire asked, striding over. Her voice was even but betrayed her annoyance. Whats with the performance, Dave? Want to meet the police properly? I can arrange that.

He spun round, face flushed, eyes wildanger, jealousy and hurt all battling for space. He rushed over, jabbing a finger at her as though catching her in a crime.

You! You! Jenny told me everything! Barely six months after the divorce and youve already found a new bloke?

His voice was a mess of disbelief, wounded pride and burning jealousy. Hed clearly hoped Jenny was winding him up. But, seeing Claires cool stare, he realised she wasnt joking.

Claire quirked an eyebrow, tipping her head to one side, lips calm but her gaze icy.

You expect me to stay faithful to you forever? she replied evenly. Even after the divorce? Thats more than a bit rich, Dave, especially given how much faithfulness meant to you during our marriage.

Dave froze for a moment as though at a loss. His outstretched arm drifted slowly back to his side. Confusion flickered briefly in his eyes. Hed clearly not expected such composure.

People drifted by: staff, visitors, delivery guys Some stared, some pretended not to notice. For Dave and Claire, the whole world contracted to those few tense yards between themthick with old hurts, unspoken blame, and a new, uncomfortable reality.

You… you just… he started, but Claire didnt let him finish.

Lets not have a scene, Dave, she said more softly, but no less firmly. If you absolutely need to talk, fine. But not here, not like this.

A scene? You want a scene? Ill show you a scene!

Now he was shouting, his voice echoing off the lobby walls. His face blotched red, muscles standing out on his neck, fists clenching and unclenchinghe looked about to burst. One moment hed step towards her, then back, as if unsure how best to threaten her.

I wont let my daughter live under the same roof as some stranger! he yelled, oblivious to the gathering crowd. Ill take Jenny from you! Youll never see her again! You

His tone was shrill, almost hysterical, but Claire just raised an eyebrow, a look of unconcealed boredom on her face. Take their daughter? Shed like to see him tryno court would be on his side.

Are you finished? Honestly, you should be on stage, she said dryly. At the circus.

Whats going on here?

Dave stopped dead at the sound of an unfamiliar voice. A sharp-dressed man in a dark blue suit had entered through the hall doors, carrying himself with effortless poise and a watchful gaze. The security guards stood straighterobviously, he was someone important.

Stay out of it! Dave snapped, glaring. His face was still flaming, and his voice barely civil. This is privateyouve no right to butt in!

The man didnt respond immediately. He strode forward unhurriedly, stopping at a point where he could see both of them. There was a hint of a smirk about him, which only wound Dave tighter.

Privates when youre talking to your ex-wife in private, he said calmly at last. Once you start making a spectacle of it in public, its everyones concern.

Claire watched the exchange unfold in silence, the tension buzzing in the air. She hadnt expected her managing director, Mr. Robert Blackwell, to intervenebut she was grateful. Hed derailed Daves tirade before it could spiral further.

Dave turned on Robert, clearly spoiling for a fight, but the man held his ground, looking cool and unruffled as though he dealt with worse every week.

And who do you think you are, bossing me about? Dave hissed, struggling to keep composure. Stop interfering in my affairs!

Robert took a couple of strong, steady paces forwards, then walked up to Claire and, without hesitation, wrapped a protective arm around her waistmaking their connection perfectly obvious.

Who am I? he said in a quiet, almost casual voice, one that carried an iron edge. Im the one who makes Claire happy. If you think you can shout at my partner, youre wrongand I wont stand for it. Dont think a visit from the police is the end of your problems. Make Jenny a bargaining chip, and youll regret it. Have I made myself clear?

Dave stood frozen. His face, so recently crimson, drained to the colour of milk. He flicked his now-shaky gaze from Robert to Claire, abruptly realising hed lost control. There was a tell-tale look of defeat in his eyeshe hadnt expected someone so unflappable.

He stood there for a moment, fists working open and shut as if trying to summon something to say. But the words wouldnt come, cowed by Roberts calm assuranceand the realisation that his old tricks wouldnt work.

Finally, he mumbled something incoherent, spun round and stalked outhis swagger now gone, shoulders tight, clinging to the shreds of dignity. At the doors, he tossed over his shoulder:

Dont expect a penny in child maintenance!

I dont need it, Claire replied coolly as soon as the doors swung shut. She sounded almost amused, utterly relieved. At least Jenny wont have to endure more weekends with him.

It suddenly struck Claire that Roberts warm, firm hand was still around her waista small gesture, but somehow deeply comforting. She blushed, lowering her gaze, and gently stepped away as naturally as she could.

With a shy, half-wistful smile, she turned to her unexpected rescuer.

Thank you so much, Mr. Blackwell. You have no idea how much youve helped me.

The gratitude in her voice was unmistakablenot just for stepping in, but for the way he handled it so calmly.

Robert smiled back, his eyes softening.

Shall we discuss it over lunch? he said, extending an inviting hand.

Claire hesitated just a second, weighing the offer. Doubts flutteredwas it too soon, would it look like she was being rash? But she pushed them aside. Robert had been nothing but considerate and steady, and she did genuinely want to talk to him in peace.

Besides, a curiosity was niggling her: who was he, really? Why had he stepped in? What lay behind that easy confidence?

YesI’d like that, she said, placing her hand in his.

His touch was unexpectedly reassuringsteady, solid, never overbearing. Claire felt the last of her tension melt away, replaced by a giddy nervousness and a small spark of excitement.

Later, over a cosy table at a little bistro near the office, conversation began to flow. Soft golden light, background jazz and the scent of baking filled the air with warmth.

As they spoke, it slowly dawned on Claire that Robert had held a quiet affection for her for a long while. He spoke with frankness, no flashy wordsjust a simple honesty, natural as breathing.

I hesitated for ages, he admitted, stirring his coffee. You always seemed so focused, so serious… I knew you were going through a rough time after the split and didnt want to be pushy or seem inappropriate.

Claire listened without interruption, moved by the lack of arrogance or bravadoonly sincerity and an instinctive respect for her boundaries.

And today, watching him shouting at you… Roberts brow creased with irritation, I simply couldnt stand by and do nothing.

Claire couldnt restrain a soft smile. That was all it was, really! Shed noticed the odd glance from him over the months, but she’d misunderstood. She liked Robert, but would never have dared take the first stepit would have seemed presumptuous, given who he was.

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

Just three months after that dramatic office scene, Claire and Robert tied the knot. The wedding was magnificent, Robert fulfilling every secret wish Claire voiced, meeting her hopes with tenderness and care.

Jenny was genuinely delighted for her mum. On the wedding day, she fussed over every detail, ensuring Claires hair and dress were perfect. When the rings were exchanged, Jenny beamed and hugged them both tightly.

Im so happy for you! she whispered, tears of joy in her eyes.

However, she was quick to add she wasnt ready to call Robert Dad.

I like you, Robert, she told him one of their first evenings together. Im happy Mums not alone. But my dad… no matter what, I already have a dad.

Robert nodded, not remotely offended.

I understand, Jenny. And youre absolutely right. The important thing is were a family.

Dave received a wedding invitationmore out of irony than sincerity. Claire considered skipping it, but decided he ought to know: she was living her life just fine without him. She posted the card with date, time and address, nothing more.

Unsurprisingly, Dave didnt show. He hadnt even considered itthe invitation had only stirred a mix of bitterness and wounded pride. Instead, he poured out his grievances to old mutual friends.

The first call came the day after he received the card. His voice was forcedly calm, but tension leaked through every sentence.

Can you believe it? She actually invited me to her wedding! he burst out, barely letting his mate get a word in. After everything!

His friend politely asked what he found so offensive, but Dave just brushed him off.

How could she? Its so humiliating!

Over the following days, he played out the same scene again and again: dialling up another acquaintance, opening with outrage about the invitation, always looking for someone to agree, to say, Yes, thats out of order.

But mostly, people responded coollyan awkward nod here, a vague Well, she has her own life, there, or simply silence. The more Dave repeated his speech, the more he realised it sounded hollow.

So he switched tack: Its only been six months! Can you really find true love that quickly? Shes just escaping, trying to forget me, you see?

Then, a new angle: She didnt even give me a chance to make things right! If only wed talked, I could have…

He never quite finished what he could have donewon her back, changed, started over.

Sometimes, the complaints grew pettier: I did so much for her, and she… not even a thank you. She just left, took our daughter too!

This talk of ingratitude rang particularly false. Friends would raise an eyebrow, offer a platitude, or gently point out: But isnt that just what couples do? Thats marriage.

Stymied, Dave would fall silent, annoyance rising inside. Not one person echoed his outrage, no one called Claire irresponsible or reckless. In fact, it was as though everyone accepted she had every right to move onthat made him angrier still.

Eventually, finding no satisfaction, Dave stopped calling altogether. Left in his flat, he looked at the odds and ends Claire had left behinda forgotten hairclip, an old wedding photo album, a dress that used to be Jennysand faced the fact: life keeps moving. Only he hadnt quite found his place in this new version of it.

With Dave finally quiet, Claire, Robert and Jenny settled into their new routinesa calm, steady rhythm, full of little joys: family dinners, Sunday strolls, good-natured squabbles over which film to watch next… Their lives continued, peaceful, full of hope, and growing stronger together each day.