“Have a seat; put your feet up. You can sit and talk with me while I paint.” Marsha’s offer to her husband of 40 years was sincere, as was his rebuff.
“Why would I do that? What’s to talk about?”
After he wandered off to do whatever it was that kept him occupied elsewhere, she had plenty of time to consider his questions. Why would he? What was there between them? She’d spent her entire adult life finding ways to occupy her own time. Now he’d retired, she was surprised to realize he didn’t need her. She’d always assumed he would.
These 100 words are prompted by VelvetVerbosity.com: “occupy”
“She’d always assumed he would.” That line made me physically move my hand to my heart. Sigh. Nicely done.
Thanks, Lisa! I appreciate your comment (and positive feedback!). 🙂
Very poignant. Makes you wonder how many older couples have this same revelation when one of them retires.
Thank you, Tara! Sadly, I’d guess this is all too common. I love considering relationships and how they grow (or don’t) and change (or don’t) as we move through life.
Scary thought…any relationship could get to that point.
Sad but entertaining in a way. I could picture the gruff old man giving her the rebuff
Visiting from 100 words
Thanks, Carrie. I believe we should all work to prevent our relationships from being poised for this future.
You nailed the rebuff! Robin
Thanks, Robin. I definitely wanted to capture a lot with this scene.
poignant and a very real look into the lives of many newly retired folks. Communication is key and an often missed item in many a marriage. Great capture!
Thank you, Barbara! I am dreaming of retirement, so maybe that’s why this sort of scene is on my mind.
Thank you for a new perspective! So many times people complain about a spouse’s retirement, assuming he/she will be too needy and disruptive to life as it has been known. I think I gasped out loud realizing the opposite could occur!
Thank you, Bobbi! I always enjoy catching the reader by surprise. 🙂
I’ve heard this is a funny transition for couples. After the children, after the work, what then? Probably a good idea to plan the retirement life together.
Thank you! Mr. H and I are spending plenty of time together, getting ready to enjoy our empty nest. I hope that my eventual retirement won’t be a shock for him (we’ve reversed roles – he’s been the SAHD).