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I yanked my hand free,mocking,"Wasn't it you who wanted to split costs?I'm just keeping to our agreement."
I sized him up.
He was no longer the dazzling boy I'd fallen for.
Maybe he'd always been this way,and I'd been blind.
"Anything else?"
I knew he hadn't come just for this.
His son's crib was right there,yet he hadn't gave it one single glance.
His face darkened,dropping the act."If you insist on resting for another month,have your parents help you."
I'd expected shamelessness,but not this.
Ignoring my post-delivery exhaustion,I hurled a pillow."Isn't this your son too?Why should my family alone take care of me?Can't your parents help?"
He looked aggrieved."I have to work and earn.You not earning is your issue—your family should step up."
As I fumed,he added,"Besides,my parents are watching my sister's kids.She'd be bullied at her in-laws'if she doesn't work."
I collapsed,unable to convince myself that anything he had said made any sense.
"My parents are old.I won't burden them forever.Either both families take turns,or we hire a postpartum nurse,costs split."
He balked."A nurse is for you,not me.Why should I pay?I haven't repaid my mom yet.I can't afford it."
As we argued,the door opened.
My parents stormed in,glaring at James,standing by me.
My mother said,"We'll take care of Lily.Don't worry about her recovery."
James left,satisfied,still without a glance at our son.
I broke down,tears falling.
My mother stroked my hair,silent.
No longer hiding,I poured out the truth abiut our marriage—years of his stinginess,recent betrayals.
She listened,then asked calmly,"What's your plan,Lily?"
I shook my head,pained."I don't want to stay with James,but I don't want my son growing up without a father wither."
She smiled,touching my face."Whatever you choose,I'll support you. We’re all behind you"
My father and friend nodded,smiling.
Their love kept me from falling into the endless pit of desperation.
For them,I'd fight back against James.
