Jane watched from the bushes as he kissed the girl goodbye. A rage boiled inside her. He waved and then started back up the hill, towards their home. She sunk further back in the bushes and took a shortcut back home.

The water she left in the pot was now boiling. She poured part of it into the boiling beef stew and set about preparing the rest of the dishes.

Her husband arrived shortly after.

“Woman!” where is the food, I am hungry.

“Yes husband” she responded as usual. Trying to camouflage the tightness in her throat.

“Ann! Aaannnn!” she called after her daughter.

Ann rushed to the kitchen.

“Yes mother?” she said respectively.

“Bring your father a glass of water and then set the table”

“Yes mother.” Ann responded and moved forward.

She remained in the kitchen pondering.

A while later the meal was ready and she brought it to the table. They ate quietly. 

She barely spoke. That was normal.

He was very cheerful and chatty. That was normal too. He was always cheerful after seeing her. 

“The porridge should be ready now.” She announced getting up from her seat.

Ann immediately followed after her and started to clear the table. An obedient, disciplined child.

From the kitchen door, she watched him scratching his beard, a satisfied smile on his face. He would soon close his eyes and fall asleep and the porridge was ready…..