Thursday 23 August 2018

Yes, dear. Of course. Whatever you need.


Don’t worry, dear, I’ll make supper. No, go lie down while I feed the kids and make lunches for tomorrow. Of course, I’ll give them their bath and get them dressed and put them to bed. Yes, of course I’ll clean the kitchen and empty the dishwasher and wash the dishes. Don’t worry, honey, I’ll put in the laundry you need for work tomorrow. Yes, of course I’ll pour you another glass of wine while you eat chocolates on the couch, leaving me to handle, what feels like, the world. Oh, my cleaning is too loud? Sure, go lie down in our bed away from everyone. Aw, gee, I'm sorry you can't beat that level of Candy Crush...you're right - maybe you'll do it without any distractions or noise. 

But honey? Please don’t yell anymore. I’m not fighting with you. Not tonight. Not now. The kids don’t like it. Neither do I. Stop baiting me with your need to argue. I have too much to deal with to care about your thirst for aggression. I have two kids to handle...but, right now, it feels like three. 

...and now that the kitchen is cleaned, dishes away, boys bathed and in bed, bills paid, lunches are packed, laundry done and clothes ready for tomorrow, it's nice of you to join me on the couch. I thought it might be nice to sit together. What's that? You want to keep watching Downton Abbey? Of course, go ahead. I'll watch the baseball game on my phone. At least we're sitting together. Oh, you ate all the chips and finished the wine? No, it's okay, I'll get more tomorrow...I'll add them to the list. Pardon? My phone is too loud? It's too distracting for you while we sit together? Fine. I'm going to bed. Goodnight. 

This is my night. This is my life.