“The refinance was only delaying what you already caused.”
“You knew what would happen when you removed your name.”
“I knew I would no longer be responsible for your choices.”
Irene stepped forward.
“You are punishing a child.
Tyler made one bad joke.”
The soda stain was still visible on the dress hanging over a chair in my laundry room.
I could smell the sour sweetness even from the kitchen.
“Tyler repeated what he had been taught,” I said.
“Then every adult at that table showed him it was acceptable.”
Mom looked up sharply.
“I never told him to pour anything on you.”
“Did you tell him I didn’t belong there?”
She opened her mouth and stopped.
Mike answered for her.
“People say things when they’re frustrated.”
“So she did say it.”
Mom’s fingers tightened around the gift bag.
“I said you always sit there judging us, like you’re better than everyone because your shop is doing well.
