The Daughter-in-Law

DAUGHTER-IN-LAW

Today, I carefully set the roast duck down in the middle of the beautifully laid dining table and let out a deep sigh. Any moment now, my sons would arrive, daughters-in-law in tow.

My youngest only recently got married, the wedding a quiet, modest affair. It seems thats the trend among young couples these days, though I would have thrown a lavish party if it were up to me. When my late husband and I got married, we only managed the registry office before scurrying back to work. We couldnt even afford rings for a whole yearsimple, thin gold bands when we finally did buy them. Id hope to give my sons the kind of celebration we never had, but in the end, it was their decision to keep things low key.

Theres just one thing, I had once confessed. Shes a bit too polished. I meant my new daughter-in-law, though Id planned properly to talk to her about it eventually.

Lucy is, generally speaking, a lovely young woman. Shes been a wonderful influence on my son, Harry. She helped him secure an excellent job; she encourages him to keep striving for more. For years, hed drifted along with no plans or ambition, living off what I could provide while I worried myself half to death. Its all come right since she joined the family.

Still, Lucys constant trips to the salon unsettle me. Haircuts, highlights, massages, manicuresshe spends a small fortune on herself. Married women with a family ought to put those needs first, I think. When children come, is she still going to be getting pedicures instead of buying Harry a decent pair of shoes? I cant say I approve of that attitude. All my life, especially after my husband passed, I put my own needs last, stretching every pound to give the boys what they needed even when they were grown men.

My thoughts fizzled away as the doorbell rangthe children had arrived. Lucy glided into the sitting room, a vision with freshly-styled hair, neat nails, and practically no makeup, her skin so clear thanks to her favourite facialist.

Oh Lucy, you do look lovely! I exclaimed sincerely, although I mightve let a hint of disapproval slip into my tone. That suitbrand new, I suspect?

Yes, I bought it yesterday, Lucy replied, her smile warm. Got a generous bonus at work.

In that case, better to save it! I advised, slipping into motherly lecture mode. All bonuses, any side income, thirteenth salary if you ever get oneput it away for a rainy day. Youll thank yourself one day, believe me.

Lucy held her tongue. She liked me well enoughthought me a good, family-oriented womanbut deep down, she believes disasters come to those who expect them and stash away for that day.

The evening was pleasant enough, but I couldnt help bringing up the topic of unnecessary spending, although I tried to be delicate. Lucy seemed to understand that the comments were aimed at her.

And when was the last time you had a manicure, Mary? she suddenly asked me.

I uh never, I blurted out, tripping over my words. Ill trim and make sure my nails are clean at home. Thats always been enough.

No one else remarked on our brief exchange, but Lucy seemed almost offended on my behalf. Imagine, raising two sons who now earn quite nicely and still hesitating to spend anything at all on yourself!

On the drive home, Lucy questioned Harry: Does your mum ever do anything just for her? Anything nice?

He shrugged: She cooks, look what she did tonight. Watches telly. Visits Mrs. Porter down the road. Why?

Its just shes never seen much of whats good in life, has she? You three should take her out! Cinema, the theatre, a nice dinner

Oh, she wouldnt care for that, you know what shes like.

Lucy fell silent, comparing me, I suppose, to her own mother. No matter how tight money became, Mrs. Hawkins always found a way to treat herself to a smart haircut or a new frock, and made sure to renew her city theatre subscription each yearfor her own pleasure.

Lucy made up her mind; she would show me that it was still possible to enjoy life just for ones self. A couple of days passed, then she rang and persuaded me to join her for a stroll, perhaps a coffee, and then to pop into the beauty salon togethershe needed to see her beautician and insisted I treat myself, too.

Oh, no, love, I objected, flustered. If you need to go, Ill just wait in the foyer or outside.

Theres really no need to wait, she insisted. Why not try a manicure and hand massage? Itll only take half an hour or so.

Eventually, I relented, with enough hesitation for Lucy to phone ahead and brief the staffher regular place, where they knew her well.

Ladies, this is my mother-in-laws first time at a salon. Please, make her feel special. Suggest some gentle treatments, dont let her worry about the priceIve already covered everything. If you work your magic, youll have a new loyal client on your hands!

The day arrived, and Lucy shepherded mestill nervousinto the salon and left me in expert hands.

Its just thirty minutes, right, Lucy? And how much should I pay?

A kind beautician whisked me away before I could fuss further. Lucy waited with her mobile in the foyer, making the most of the interruption by catching up on messages.

Nearly two hours later, I emergedrelaxed, refreshed, and quietly delighted. The staff excelled themselves.

Lucy, they did so much for me! Coffee, herbal tea, such friendly girls It must cost a fortune.

Were having a special offer today, the receptionist cut in with a wink. Bring a friend, and they get their first treatments for free. Today, theres no charge.

Lucy and I strolled to a nearby café, where I drank a cappuccino and stretched back in my chair. It felt decadent.

How about next time, we go together for another girls outing? Lucy suggested. Theyre always running good deals for regulars. You enjoyed yourself, didnt you?

I did, honestly, I admitted. I had no idea it could be so nice.

Should have tried it years ago!

Well when the boys were small, your fatherGod rest himwas so careful with money. Treats werent encouraged. Afterwards, I suppose I just got out of the habit.

Theres every reason now, Lucy grinned. You keep me company. Its more fun together.

All right, sometimes, for your sake.

So began a new chapter: Lucy and I, making a little more time to look after ourselves. She updated my wardrobe bit by bit, conveniently halving the real price each time she told me. Eventually, she talked Harry into inviting me out to a restaurant, then all three of us went to the cinema. For Christmas, Lucy gave me a theatre membership.

Before long, my neighbours noticed. You look younger these days, Mary! they teased.

Oh, its just the young ones keeping me on my toes, Id reply, modest but quietly delighted.

Strange, but at this age, mother of two grown men and now retired, I feel as if a new youth has finally begun for me.