My father leaves the house twice a week for a few hours. He always returns full of energy and in high spirits. Soon, his secret is revealed.
Im ten years old, and my older brother, William, is twelve. He spends all day playing outside in the garden. We dont get along very well. Meanwhile, I help my mum with chores around the house. Dad works at a factory and comes home very late in the evening. Mum sets the table, and we all sit down for dinner. Afterwards, Dad puts on his polished leather shoes, stands in front of the mirror for ages, and then leaves without a word. As soon as hes gone, Mum glares at the door in frustration. I wonder where Dad goes and why she reacts like that. Later, he comes home in the best mood. Out of curiosity, I ask Mum why she gets so cross when Dad leaves.
She tells me Dad has another woman. I cant believe it. Ive seen how much he loves my mumhe wouldnt do such a thing. The next time he slips out in the evening, I follow him. He heads straight for the Royal Opera House and walks inside. I hesitate, unsure whether to go in or not. Suddenly, a hand touches my shoulder. I turn and see a stunning womanI recognise her as a famous actress. She takes me inside with her, and there, I see a packed theater.
My father is on stage. I had no idea he was an opera singer. As it turns out, hes incredibly talented. Hes performing an aria and doesnt notice me sitting in the back row. Tears well up in my eyes from sheer joy. When he finishes, the applause is thunderous. He stands there, accepting flowers. After the show, we stroll through Hyde Park together before heading home, laughing all the way. I pull Mum aside and whisper, «Dad doesnt have another womanhes been going to the theatre.» She just smiles and whispers back, «I know. I know, she says, wiping a tear from her eye. I used to sing too, before you and William were born. He does it for both of us now. From that night on, I keep his secret, and every week, I sit in the shadows of the opera house, listening to the voice of a man no one seesexcept when the lights come on.
