Milly: Clueless

TW: Milly’s Story contains Coercive Behaviour

Hunter paid the contractor what remained of her inheritance. The work extended their home to accommodate a third bedroom. Milly had stopped objecting to his usage of her money since they created a joint account. Whatever she possessed became his when they moved in together. Hunter took a tighter grip on the financial reins as a married couple, leaving Milly clueless. Women could not carry the burden of finances. He had seen it in previous relationships. The woman borrowed to maintain a life beyond her means. His wife would never have to worry about such things.

Hunter watched the twins pick apart their fish tacos. Selena liked to break down the crunchy shell and rebuild. A smaller version with the parts she enjoyed. Lettuce piled up on the side of her plate. She pouted cross with her daddy. His tone scolded, as girls grow strong by eating all their dinner. James smacked his hands down, breaking the taco and mushing it together in a sticky mess. He would consume the larger pieces in one gulp. The food would spread over his face, a toothy grin expressing his enjoyment. He lived in the present, savouring each mouthful. James had his father’s features, and a green tint altered the blonde of his hair. Hunter prided himself on creating a mini-version. The thought James would soon have Hunter’s green locks upset Milly. The blonde suited him, and it had her thick curly texture. Hunter wanted James to have everything, including a bedroom he did not have to share. He prayed this pregnancy would bring him a son, another to be in his image. They would need to curb their spending habits to raise the money for a smaller fourth bedroom for Selena. Enough for a bed, wardrobe and another baby. It seemed Hunter planned to prepare their daughter for motherhood. A long way into the future, Hunter envisaged their home filled with grandchildren.

Milly settled the twins. For the time being, they shared a bedroom. Both need the other to sleep at night. The baby moved inside as Selena reached for her mummy, asking to feel them kick. It was exciting to know they would have someone new to play with. Milly wished Hunter would let her take the children to the park, but he feared the bigger children would be mean. James and Selena had each other, and this would be enough.

Her chest tightened when the doorbell rang. Hunter had a gig that evening, and her family knew better than to visit. She crept downstairs, catching sight of the blue hair through the glass. Milly let go of the tension as Azure waved. She had not seen him since Eliza’s wedding, as he promised to keep a respectful distance. Azure waited until Hunter left, knowing the problems his presence caused. Milly ushered him inside, checking the neighbours were not watching. She doubted any would mention the evening’s visitor, but there was no point in taking chances.

He followed her to the kitchen, accepting a helping of leftover tacos. Azure watched as Milly busied herself with the cleaning, making small talk. How had he been? What was work like? And was he dating anyone? Azure was never forthcoming about his romantic life private. A gentleman kept these things secret unless it was serious. The conversation always switched to Milly and the curiosity of why she remained. Milly had the same rehearsed answer. Hunter was a good father, doting on the children and a loving husband. He provided them with everything they needed. Mostly, her family nodded and accepted she loved him. Concerned etched its way across Azure’s face, but he opted not to express it further. Instead, he extended his congratulations on both the marriage and the pregnancy.

He polished off the taco with the tea she made, milk and a hint of honey. Azure noted her checking the clock, too polite to say she needed him to leave. He placed a small rectangle business card on the table. Should Milly require anything, all she needed to do was call. She backed away, shaking her head wanting him to take it back. Hunter had her phone, and any unapproved contact made him angry. It was a risk, yet Azure assured her. These people would give her a safe space and know how to answer a call to men like Hunter.

Azure saw himself out, glancing back to see Milly snatch the card. She studied it, memorising the numbers. Two children slept upstairs, her husband at work, and she entertained for a moment being free.

Milly and Azure: https://simfileshare.net/download/3112549/

If you are affected by Milly’s story, help is available: https://refuge.org.uk/