I sat downstairs with a cup of tea.
For the first time in years, I did not feel responsible for fixing the tension around me.
Their panic belonged to them.
At 7 in the morning, I prepared breakfast for myself and Oliver.
Daniel came downstairs wearing yesterday’s clothes.
“We need more time,” he said.
“You had a full day.”
“We haven’t found an apartment.”
“That is unfortunate.”
“You expect us to take Oliver to a hotel?”
“I expect you to make responsible arrangements for your family.”
He stared at me.
“You really don’t care.”
I placed my cup on the table.
“I care enough to stop enabling you.”
He laughed bitterly.
“Everything is about money to you.”
“No. This is about respect.”
Marissa entered carrying several bags.
“We booked a hotel for three nights,” she said. “After that, we don’t know.”
“You both have jobs,” I replied. “You can find a rental.”
She looked around the kitchen.
“You’re enjoying this.”
“No.”
That answer surprised her.
“I am not enjoying your struggle,” I continued. “I am relieved that I no longer have to sacrifice myself to prevent it.”
At exactly 8:00, the doorbell rang.
Daniel looked toward the entrance.
“Who is that?”
I stood.
“You’ll see.”
When I opened the door, a locksmith stood outside with a toolbox.
“Good morning, Mrs. Bennett,” he said. “I’m here to replace the locks.”
“Come in.”
Daniel dropped the suitcase he had been carrying.
“What are you doing?”
“The locks will be changed by 10.”
“We’re still packing.”
“Then continue.”
Marissa rushed downstairs.
“You called a locksmith?”
“Yes.”
“You’re unbelievable.”
“I was clear about the deadline.”