by Jo Meadows
Lynnette told her not to bother denying anything and said her Dad had overheard her talking out loud about what she’d done and what she was planning to do and that he’d called Lynnette out of fear. That was why they’d turned up out of the blue. She went back to the months leading up to her Dad’s stroke and how her Mum’s behaviour had caused him an enormous amount of unnecessary stress which had probably led to the stroke. She also said they all believed that all the little incidents and accidents her Dad had had were set up and caused by her.
Lynnette told her Mum that she knew why she did the things she did and that she couldn’t help herself but said that violent behaviour was totally unacceptable and the fact that her Dad was vulnerable had made the attacks even worse.
‘What do you mean; you know why I supposedly do what I do? And, before you say anything, I do deny attacking your Dad. I wouldn’t do that. And, I’ve never set traps or arranged “accidents” like you say I have. I’ve been under a lot of stress while he’s been ill; you don’t know the half of what I have to put up with and how hard it’s been for me.’
‘What do you mean you’ve been under stress and you’ve had it so hard? You’ve hardly lifted a finger to help Dad. We know you never helped with his exercises or getting him washed and dressed, and we know you spent almost full days out shopping by yourself. God knows what you were doing all day. Yes, you’ve had it so hard. Come off it! You’re not fooling anyone! You lie and manipulate everyone into thinking you’re the victim and it’s all “Woe is me!” It doesn’t wash Mum. We’ve all had enough of your attitude and behaviour and it stops right now! You will never attack my Dad again, ever. Do you understand? Ever!’
‘How dare you? I won’t have you talk to me that way. I’m your mother and if you know what’s good for you, you’ll stop now-’
‘If I know what’s good for me? Don’t threaten me Mother! You’ve been found out. We all know what’s wrong with you and that you can’t help yourself. Whether you like it or not, we believe you have a disorder. It’s psychological and it’s called Narcissistic Personality Disorder. You won’t have known it and I’ve no doubt you won’t accept it, but you’ve been this way for as long as I can remember. Normally, it wouldn’t be a problem, we’ve all put up with it for long enough, but lately you’ve turned violent. There’s a real danger that you’re getting out of control and you need professional help. We’re not going to allow things to carry on the way they’ve been; the days when you thought you could say and do what you want are over.’
Georgina looked crestfallen. She looked across at David.
‘David, Darling, surely you don’t believe this nonsense do you? You know I wouldn’t do anything to hurt you. I know I’ve been upset a few times lately but I have been under a lot of pressure. You understand that don’t you?’
‘Yes I do, but what Lynnette said is true. You’re getting out of control. I’m scared Georgina; you’ve got me so I daren’t sleep. You need help; you know that, you’ve got to.’
‘But David, they’re just conspiring against me. None of what she’s said is true. I’ve never set traps for you; I’ve never hurt you intentionally.’
‘Georgina, that’s just not true, is it? What about when you’ve punched me? What about the time you attacked me when I was asleep? The bruises didn’t appear by themselves did they? Lynnette’s right, I did hear you saying what you’d done and what you were planning. My hearing’s been fine for quite a while now. You need help and if you think it’s a conspiracy then so be it. I’m not going to let you manipulate me, bully me or hurt me anymore. Do you hear?’
‘Well, that’s that then is it? I’m the wicked witch and you all hate me. Well, I don’t care. You’re talking nonsense and I’ve had enough of it. Psychological disorders! You’re all mad. I’m going to bed and, in the morning, after you’ve all come back to your senses, you can take us both home.’
‘Mum, sit down and shut up! I haven’t finished.’
‘Stop telling me what to do, you’ve always been so full of yourself. You’ve always known what’s best for everyone haven’t you? Your cheeky little daughter will grow up just like you no doubt. God help us all.’
‘That’s enough Georgina,’ said Leo. ‘Sit down and listen. We have some conditions; you need to hear them.’
‘Conditions? What conditions? Leon, I thought you were my friend. Surely you’re not going along with all this.’
Georgina started to cry softly. She sat shaking with her head in her hands and Lynnette waited until she’d composed herself before she spoke again.
‘Mum. This is what is going to happen. If you want to go home tomorrow you can as it’s Saturday, but Dad will be staying here with us. You can go home and you can think about what you want to do for a while. We would suggest that your house in Calthorpe is put on the market and sold as soon as possible and you buy a place near here where we can keep an eye on you. You can both stay here with us for as long as that takes. Another suggestion is that you sell your house and, with the money it makes, you fund the building of an extension to this house where you can have a self-contained flat designed for you. When everything is completed, I’ll visit you both daily to see how you are. This is the only way we’ll allow you to live with Dad. It’s up to you but there’s no way you’re going to be left alone with free rein to do what you like. I need to make sure I can keep my promise to Dad. That promise is that I will not allow you to hurt him or having him living in fear ever again. Do you understand?’
‘What say do I have? You’ve conspired against me and now you’re blackmailing me; that’s what you’re doing. David, do you not see this is her way of stealing all our money? If we sell our house and use the money to build an extension, when we’re gone Lynnette will have taken everything.’
‘Georgina, I agree with everything Lynnette’s said. You need help and we’ll help you get it if you’re willing. Lynnette and Michael get everything after we’re gone anyway so what’s the difference. It’s not about that. It’s about us living together happily and safely. I can’t cope anymore; you’ve hurt me so much. I love you but I’ve had enough of your behaviour.’
‘I’m not selling the house and I’m not living here. You can do what you like you stupid man.’
‘Georgina, Darling. You’ll be the stupid one, if you’re not willing to go along with what’s been suggested then I’m afraid that will be that. Even though I love you with all my heart, I will separate from you and file for divorce. The house will be sold and we’ll get half each. Lynnette and Leo have been kind enough to say that I can live here until I can make more permanent arrangements but, rest assured, I will not let things stay as they are. The choice is yours. It’s up to you.’
‘I want to go home tomorrow. I don’t care what you do David, you can stay here if you like, I don’t need you, I don’t need any of you. You call me a bully. That’s exactly what you all are; bullies. You can’t sell my house from under me, you just try it. You must think I’m stupid.’
As Georgina went to leave, she turned and said, ‘By the way, I’m so glad you all enjoyed the stew - Idiots!’ And, laughing, she left the room.
Lynnette looked across at her Dad who sat slowly shaking his head. ‘Dad, did you hear what I just heard?’
‘Yes, I did. She probably did it straight after your little bust-up earlier. I’ve told you it’s relentless; you can’t criticise or challenge her about anything. If you do and she doesn’t win or get her way verbally, you’ll suffer some kind of revenge or at the very least; she’ll give you the silent treatment. I’ve been thinking a lot lately and I’ve worked out that every incident I’ve had in the past, has followed a criticism, a challenge or me just talking back to her.’
‘Are you sure?’
‘Oh yes, I’m certain. When I cut my hand on that glass in the cupboard all those months ago; that followed me being late with her tea that morning. I even remember thinking at the time that I’d pay for it later. I’d never be able to prove anything
except when she’s actually hit me but even back then I think I knew subconsciously that she was up to something.’
‘I know it’s not relevant and it’s really trivial but, why were you late with her tea?’
‘I went into the park and picked a flower to give to her with the tea and it took me a couple of minutes.’
‘So, you were doing something nice just for her and she still sought revenge? God, is there no end to it?’
‘I can’t understand it, I’ve always tried to please her and make her happy all the time we’ve been together.’
‘It’s not your fault Dad. You’ll see when you read some of the stuff we found online. You’ll see what we’ve been talking about.’
The next day Georgina was up very early. She’d packed and was waiting to be taken home before anyone else was up. She refused to talk to anyone and declined breakfast so, after Leo had prepared the car, they left for Calthorpe.
She didn’t say goodbye to anyone.
Chapter 21
As they pulled into the drive Leo said he would help Georgina with her bags. She ignored him and went straight into the house. Leo put the bags in the hall and went to find her in the kitchen.
‘Georgina, is there anything you’d like me to do for you before I go?’
‘No thank you Leon, I’ll be fine. David will come to his senses soon enough and he’ll be asking you to bring him home. When he does, make sure he gives you some money for fuel. You shouldn’t have to do all these trips, it’s silly.’
‘Georgina, he won’t be coming back any time soon. What was said last night was very serious. It’s something you need to think very carefully about.’
‘Oh but Leo, you don’t think like that do you?’ she said, taking his hand. ‘Surely you don’t think I’m capable of hurting anyone or doing all those horrible things. I thought you liked me. I thought we had something special, some kind of bond. I’ve always liked you; more than I should perhaps, and I know you feel the same.’
‘I do like you Georgina, but-’
‘Well then, don’t let what Lynnette said change your mind. She’s only trying to get you on her side. I’m not that terrible person, you know that don’t you? Will you stay and have a coffee with me? I’d love to chat for a while if you don’t have to rush off. You could even stay for the night and get a good night’s sleep before you travel back. It will be very late by the time you get home if you travel today. We could have a nice glass of wine together.’
‘No, thanks, I need to get off soon.’
‘Please stay with me for a while Leo, I won’t get to see you for ages after you’ve gone.’
‘Okay, just for a coffee then.’ As Georgina made the coffee Leo went to the car and brought back a file.
‘What’s that?’
‘It’s something for you to read after I’ve gone. You might not like it I’m afraid, but it’s some information about the condition we believe you have. If you read this, things may become clearer for you and even if you can’t accept that there’s a problem, it will help you understand what’s been said.’
‘I don’t care what’s been said, I think they’re both conspiring against me. I know you don’t believe what they’ve said.’
‘I’m sorry, but I do Georgina. Why would we make it up? You need to come to terms with it and decide what you’re going to do.’
‘I’ll tell you what I’m going to do! I’m going to ask you to leave right now! I thought you were my friend. I thought you cared about me. You’re just like them. Get out of my house, I don’t want you here!’
‘Georgina, there’s no need to get upset. I’ll leave. Please read this and think about it. Give us a call when you decide what you want to do.’
‘Get out Leon before I lose my temper. Go on, get out!’
Leo left the house and drove slowly away. I don’t know why I thought I might be able to reason with her, he thought. She’s lost it. What was all that, holding my hand and asking me to stay over? Despite what had happened and how much he knew she needed help, he still felt some sympathy for her. She was on her own now and would be until she decided what to do. Still, he thought, the way she was up until she lost her temper, makes it hard to see how she could be so hurtful and actually attack Dave. I know she was trying to manipulate me to get me on her side, but she came across as really pleasant and actually very nice. I can see why Dave’s been fooled for so long, poor guy.
Watching Leo drive away, Georgina wasn’t sure what to think. She’d got her way and was back at home but David was still in Lynnette’s clutches and temporarily out of reach. Her attempts to sway Leo more to her side appeared to have failed but she’d seen a glint in his eyes. She knew he liked her; she knew if she’d been a little younger, she could have worked him around. It was a shame he had to bring up that stupid file and make out that he believed what Lynnette had been saying about her. With more time she was sure she could have won him over.
She decided to go and get some shopping; there was no milk in the fridge and nothing that wasn’t frozen. This will seem odd, she thought, shopping for one and being on my own for a while. Oh well, it will give me time to work out how best to play all this. David won’t carry one with this for long. He says he loves me, with time away from me he’ll realise how much he misses me and will soon want to come home. I’ll give him a day or two and then call him. I don’t care how much Lynnette has her claws into him; he’ll come around once I start sweet-talking him. Shame about Leo though; I could have had fun if he’d stayed over.
‘Hello Georgina, haven’t seen you about for a few days. How’s Dave?’
‘Hello Peter, yes, David’s fine thank you. We’ve been staying at Lynnette’s.’
‘Is Dave well enough to have visitors? I’d love to have a chat with him.’
‘Well, he’s well enough but he’s stayed at Lynnette’s for a few more days. I have some appointments so I came back early.’
‘All on your own eh? Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do now will you? Cat’s away and all that.’
‘Peter, don’t be silly. You know I’m always very well behaved.’
Pete was lost for words as he watched her walk away. Remarks like the ones he’d just made would normally go down like proverbial lead balloons. She seems to be in a good mood, he thought, perhaps Dave’s healthier than she’s been giving him credit for; lucky lad.
God, I hate that man, Georgina said to herself as she walked towards town. Still, a few pleasant words don’t go amiss. I bet I can twist him around my little finger if I need anything doing. Men are all the same, bat your eyes at them and they’re putty in your hands.
***
Later, sitting with a glass of wine, Georgina tried to think about the best way to bring David around. She’d been going over the same thoughts ever since she’d got back from the shops and couldn’t come up with anything new that she thought would work. Going back to her original idea, she decided to leave it for a few days, to make sure he’d be missing her and then call. But, she was still so angry about how Lynnette had spoken to her and how David had agreed with what she’d said. She’d thought her anger would ease being at home, but if anything, it was worse; far worse.
David was out of reach and she had nothing upon which to vent her rage at the way she’d been treated. She couldn’t get her head around the way she’d been spoken to and the way they’d all ganged up on her. How the hell dare they? Who do they think they are talking to her like that? Knowing she couldn’t win, she’d felt an overwhelming urge to escape, but having to wait all night and then going through that long silent journey home, had been awful. It was all she could do to stop herself screaming out loud. The only saving grace had been that it was Leo that had brought her home and not Lynnette. She couldn’t have coped with that and wasn’t sure whether she wouldn’t have struck out at her or done something equally stupid.
As the wine kicked-in, her anger finally started to ease and, as she poured the last glass from the bottle, she realised she
was a little tipsy. She knocked back the whole glass in one and went to fetch another bottle. Several drinks later, her anger had almost totally subsided and she couldn’t care-less about David or Lynnette. Damn them all! I’ll work something out tomorrow, she thought as she drifted off to sleep on the sofa.
Waking up early the next morning, Georgina felt surprisingly good. She was no longer angry. If anything she felt determined to show that she could manage without any of them. Let’s see what David thinks when I don’t call. He’ll be expecting me to cry down the phone to him, begging and pleading him to come home. Well that’s not going to happen. Sell the house indeed; over my dead body. They can make all the plans they want; they can’t make me do anything I don’t want. I’ll show them who has the power and authority; they can’t do anything without my say. As for David threatening divorce, he wouldn’t know where to start. He can’t do a thing without my advice; I’ve got him too well trained. Besides, he knows that when this is all over, he’ll have me to answer to, god help him. He knows he won’t get away with this. I’ll be nice as pie and bide my time. He’s never been any good when I’ve cut him off and not spoken for a while. He’ll be worried and afraid already. He hasn’t got the guts to follow through with his threats.
Realising her anger was starting to build again, she decided to go for a walk. Outside, Pete was washing his car.
‘Hello Peter, how are you today?’
‘Good morning Georgina, fine thanks. And you? You’re looking well.’
‘Thank you, I’m very well. It’s a lovely day.’
‘Yes, you’re right there. And it’s all the better for seeing you.’
‘Why thank you Peter, you too. Peter, would you mind giving me a hand moving some pots in the garden later? David hasn’t been able to help me for a while and he’s not here now of course. Would you mind? I’d really appreciate it?’