I pictured Maddie with her backpack, Ben asking for pancakes, and Owen reaching toward me to be picked up.
They were innocent.
Seth understood how deeply I cared for them and knew exactly how to use those feelings against me.
I glanced toward Heather, who watched silently.
“I’m not taking anything out on the children,” I said. “I’m refusing a job I never agreed to do.”
Seth sighed.
“Then I don’t know what you want from me.”
“The truth would have been a good start.”
I ended the call.
I remained seated, phone in hand.
Heather finally spoke.
“I’m sorry.”
I nodded.
“I know.”
She looked down.
“I still don’t know what I’m going to do Monday.”
Her voice cracked.
“My supervisor already warned me about missing another day. Ben was sick twice last month, and I had to use most of my remaining paid time off.”
