Chapter 2
Thaddeus Wilson and I were introduced by a mutual friend. Initially, I wasn't particularly interested in finding love at this stage of life, but the thought of growing old alone made me reconsider. So, with an open mind, I decided to get to know Thaddeus over the course of several weeks.
Compared to other men his age, Thaddeus was well-groomed and carried himself with a certain dignity. When we were together, he was attentive and caring, always noticing my moods and showing concern over the slightest worry on my face. I admit, his kindness warmed my weary heart.
Naturally, financial compatibility was an important factor in our decision to marry. I had started a company when I was younger and, though I'd sold most of my shares now, the dividends still provided me with a comfortable income. Thaddeus, for his part, had worked on the railways and received a good pension, around three to four thousand dollars. It all seemed to add up well, so we decided to get married.
I never imagined that things would change so quickly after we tied the knot. Suddenly, Thaddeus, who had been so considerate, started speaking to me in a different tone. I began to question whether this late-life romance had been a mistake.
That evening, Thaddeus brought me a bouquet, trying to make amends. Smiling, he handed me the flowers, though not in the most romantic way, and said, "Even though we're not young anymore, we shouldn't skip out on life's little rituals. I admit, today my daughter said some things she shouldn't have, but it wasn't on purpose. Can you let it go?"
Not on purpose? After all that had happened, he expected me to believe Kinsley meant no harm? What, I wondered, would count as intentional in his eyes?
I replied coolly, "Why should I? Just because I'm older, I have to defer to her whims? The saying goes 'respect your elders,' she ought to show me some respect first."
He was earnest in his apology, noticing my displeasure, and quickly tried to reassure me. "Kinsley was raised by my parents, so she can be a bit strong-willed sometimes. She's just acting out; she doesn't mean to be difficult."
He poured me a cup of coffee. "Roselyn, now that we've married, you should consider Kinsley as your own daughter. Surely there's no lasting grudge between a mother and daughter?"
"How about this, I'll give you my pension for the next few months as an apology. And once you're feeling better, I'll have Kinsley come over and apologize to you."
Thaddeus seemed sincere, and perhaps they really didn't know the true value of the bracelet? I thought it over. After all, we had just gotten married, and if we divorced so soon, wouldn't we become the talk of every neighbor and their afternoon gossip?
I sighed and decided to accept his explanation for now.
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