How Could She?! Didn’t Ask Me! Didn’t Consult! Can You Imagine It—Marching Right Into Someone Else’s…

How could she?! She didnt even ask! Not a word, not a hint of discussion! Can you imagine walking into someone elses flat as if it were her own, making herself at home? No respect whatsoever! Lord above, what have I done to deserve this? Ive looked after her my whole life, and this is the thanks I get! She clearly doesnt see me as a person! I brushed away the tears that welled up Apparently, my life isnt good enough for her! She should look at her own! There she sits, alone in her poky little studio flat, thinking shes caught the golden goose. No decent job, no proper husband to speak of, some freelance stuff. What does she even live on? And yet shes lecturing me about how I should live! Ive forgotten things shes only just starting to learn!

That last thought sent me shooting out of my armchair. I marched to the kitchen, put the kettle on, and wandered to the window.

Looking out over the city, full of festive lights and that New Years glow, I started crying again:

Everyone else is preparing for the New Year, making plans. But me Theres no celebration here. Just me. All alone.

The kettle whistled. So lost in memories, I didnt even notice.

I was twenty when Mum had another baby at forty-five. I was baffled why would she want such bother at her age?

I dont want you to ever be alone, Mum told me. Its wonderful having a sister. Youll understand. One day.

I get it, I replied indifferently at the time. But dont count on me. Ive got my own life to live.

Not anymore, love, Mum smiled.

She was right. Prophetic, really. The little one was only three when Mum died. Dad had gone even earlier.

All the responsibility for my baby sister fell on me. I became Rosies mother in everything but name. Well into her childhood, she called me Mum.

I never did get married. Not because of Rosie, mind. I just never met that one man who could win my heart. Its not as if I was out and about, anyhow. Life was just home, work, Rosie; home, work, Rosie

Losing my parents made me grow up overnight. My entire adult life has been devoted to raising and educating Rosie.

Now, Rosies an adult, living independently. Shes planning to marry.

Rosie often visits me. Were very close, even though we have a big age gap, utterly different personalities, and completely different views on life.

Me, for instance: Im exceedingly frugal. My flats turned into a museum of old, mostly useless things. If you looked closely, youd find a dressing gown from a decade ago, back when I was slimmer. Or electricity bills from the year 2000.

The kitchens full of chipped mugs, battered enamel pots, frying pans missing handles. I havent used them in ages, but I cant bring myself to throw anything away. What if I need them one day?

I havent decorated the flat in years. Not for lack of money, but the wallpapers still in one piece, isnt it?

This habit of scrimping on myself and my own comfort, all for Rosie, rather set the tone for my life.

But Rosie is nothing like me: cheerful, always up for adventure. Her flat is minimal nothing surplus, just the essentials.

Shes made a rule for herself: If I havent needed something in a year, out it goes!

Thats why Rosies place feels so light, airy, and easy to breathe in.

Shes offered time and again: Lets redecorate here, go through your things. Soon youll have no room for yourself.

Im not throwing a single thing away and dont want anything changed, Id say. I dont want a new look.

But have you seen your hallway? Rosie would protest. Those textured walls are ancient! Its like stepping into a cellar. All this clutter just eats up energy, you know! Its not healthy!

Still, I batted her away.

So Rosie decided to take matters into her own hands. She wanted to surprise me, show me the difference it could make.

She picked the hallway for her project: little furniture, minimal clutter.

A week before New Years, while I was working a night shift, Rosie and her fiancé came round (we both have each other’s keys) and re-papered the hallway. Out went the old dark walls, in came something light green with a golden pattern.

They rearranged what little furniture there was, careful not to disturb my things, then headed out.

When I got home, I took one look and immediately stepped back onto the landing. For a moment, I wondered if Id got the wrong door.

But the number was right.

I stepped back in. And realised instantly: Rosie!

How could she!

I rang her up, scolded her thoroughly and hung up.

A half-hour later, Rosie turned up herself.

Who asked you to do this? I snapped as soon as I opened the door.

I just wanted to surprise you, Rosie said, seeking understanding. Look how clean, how bright it is. Theres space to breathe.

Dont you ever take over in my own flat! I couldnt help myself. The words just poured out by the bucketful.

Eventually, Rosie snapped: Enough. Live in your rubbish tip if you must. I wont set foot here again.

Truth hurts, doesnt it? Storming off, are you?

I feel sorry for you, I really do, Rosie replied quietly, and left.

She hasnt called in a week. Weve never fallen out like this before. And now New Years is nearly here. Are we really going to spend it separately?

I went into the hallway and sat on the stool.

Actually, it does feel roomier in here, I thought, picturing Rosie and Sam putting up the paper, doing their best, wanting to surprise me. Not a crease in sight. Why did I get so upset? It really is so much better. Lighter. And my heart feels lighter too. Maybe Rosies right?

Suddenly, my phone rang

Nina, Rosies voice cracked she was crying, please forgive me. I never meant to upset you. Honestly, I just wanted to make you happy

Oh Rosie, I stopped being angry long ago, I was sniffling too, overcome with emotion. And theres nothing to forgive, not really the wallpapers wonderful. And after the holidays, lets finally tackle the clutter. If youll help me, that is.

Of course I will! Id love to help! But what about tonight? Its New Years Eve I cant bear the thought of starting the year without you

Nor I.

Then get your coat on, Rosie gushed. Everythings ready: a real pine tree, fairy lights, candlesjust the way you like it. And dont rush about: Ive done all the shopping. I never gave up hope wed make up and spend tonight together. Take your time, Sam will pick you up soon.

I stood again at the window. This time, I looked out at the sparkling city with new eyes.

Thank you, Mum, I thought. Thank you for my sister.

Tonight, I understand that sometimes I need to let go of things, of grudges, of old habits and open my heart to those I love. That is what truly brightens up a home.