“Claire didn’t ask me to do this. She didn’t even know about the house. I’m doing it because I’ve finally realized how long I’ve protected you from the consequences of your own choices.”
Then she turned toward me.
“We’re leaving.”
Eric followed us toward the car.
“Mom, come on. Seriously.”
Barbara opened my door.
“No, Eric. I’ve spent thirty-four years waiting for you to grow up.”
Then we drove away.
Part 6 — I Stopped Begging
Barbara’s next stop was the pharmacy.
She paid for Chloe’s medication and breathing supplies.
I sat in the passenger seat afterward with the pharmacy bag on my lap.
My mind kept replaying Eric’s words.
Find somebody who cares.
Barbara had never heard him say that.
Somehow, that made everything feel even heavier.
“I’ll pay you back,” I said.
Barbara nodded.
“Yes, you will.”
