Hidden in the Mist by Sue Penney

Author:Sue Penney
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781838452261
Publisher: Penney's Accountancy
Published: 2022-04-11T15:49:44+00:00

Chapter 28

1973

Susan felt the relief flood through her body – which was strange, seeing as her position had not changed at all. She was still married to James and, as yet, had no idea of how she was to extricate herself from the relationship. However, just knowing that she had discussed the situation with others, and had not been found to be wanting or crazy, buoyed up her spirits and gave her confidence.

She needed to work out what to do next, where she could go and how she could fund her life without her husband. She looked at the women sitting around the table and took in a deep breath before speaking. ‘So, what do I do now? I mean, where do I go? How do I cope for money? I have no bank account of my own. James deals with all the money side of things. He pays all the accounts and leaves me a bit of housekeeping money each week.’ Susan started to feel a bit panicky when she realised quite how much she was beholden to her husband.

Stacey looked at her seriously before saying, ‘Do you keep any of the money aside?’ Susan replied, ‘Not really, only the odd pound here and there. James asks for every receipt for anything I have purchased and adds it all up, to ensure that I have not been “squandering” his money,’ she said, her voice full of despair. ‘I suppose that I could ask my father for help, but I am not sure that he would be willing. The thought of a divorce in the family would be abhorrent to my parents, especially my mother. I don’t even know how I will be able to broach the idea of taking the children away. Sarah Peters has kindly offered to write to her sister, as they have a farm, and she has suggested that I take the children there for a holiday.’

Stacey folded her arms and leant back against the door frame and lit another cigarette, as it seemed to help her think. She took a few drags and then blew the smoke out in two perfect rings, which stretched in the air as they floated up towards the sky, gently melting away to nothing. ‘OK,’ Stacey said, seeming to take charge of the situation. ‘How about this for an option? When Sarah hears back from her sister, you arrange to go and stay with her for a couple of weeks. I’m sure that you will be able to come up with a good enough excuse for James. If not, then you can just go when he is at work. Take as much with you as you can carry. I know Sarah’s sister. Sarah will have understood your situation too, I am sure, so will be willing to help.’

Susan was looking at Stacey with rapt attention.

Stacey continued. ‘They live on a farm, OK, so there is always stuff to be done. You will be able to stay there and help on the farm to earn your keep while you file for divorce.

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