The Naked TRUTH

Angela had opened her heart to Tim but was she ready to reveal all?

It’s wonderful, Mum! What are you worried about? I know you’ve missed Dad, but it’s quite a long time ago,’ Lucy began carefully. ‘I mean, 12 years is a decent interval in anyone’s language. And Tim’s a really nice man. We all like him – and you love him. Where’s the problem?’

Lucy carried on cutting out the scones while her mum Angela arranged cups and saucers on a tray.

‘Mummy!’ a little voice was calling from the sitting room.

‘Just a minute, Emily, I’m talking to Granny!’

Angela gazed at Lucy, not sure where to begin.

‘It’s just that… well, I hope I look OK-ish when I’ve made a bit of an effort. But what about the rest of the time?’

‘What “rest of the time”?’ Lucy looked at her mother.

‘You know! We’ve been, well, just dating up until now. That’s very different from going on holiday together...’

Her mother was embarrassed, Lucy realised belatedly.

‘I mean, what will he be expecting? Underneath it all, I’m all lumpy and bumpy and bobbly and wobbly… It all needs holding in. I’m a mess!’

‘Oh, Mum! Of course, you’re not a mess!’

‘Well, no one’s seen me in a swimsuit since I don’t know when.’ Angela paused. ‘And supposing things…progressed?’

Lucy goggled at her mother.

‘No one’s seen me with nothing on at all for a very long time indeed!’

‘Dad did.’