She’s the type who remembers every birthday and who listens without judgment when life gets messy. But for some reason, Daniel always kept her at arm’s length, and the feeling seemed mutual. They clashed on almost everything, including how to spend holidays and how to raise our daughter.
Mom thought Daniel could be too arrogant and dismissive, while Daniel thought Mom was too opinionated and meddling. Despite what they felt about each other, they were polite and cordial during family dinners. My daughter, Sophie, adores her grandmother and would run into her arms the moment she walked in the door, and that bond alone often kept the peace between them.
The doctor told me clearly that during chemotherapy, she would need support and supervision. He told me that the treatments would leave her weak, disoriented, and sometimes unable to take care of herself. Someone had to be there, day in and day out.
At that point, I didn’t even hesitate. I immediately told her she should come stay with us because that was the only way I could provide her with the peace, love, and care she deserved. I offered her the guest room, or even Sophie’s room, while she was away at college, just so she could feel like she belonged.
I thought I was doing the right thing for everyone, and that Daniel would understand. I believed compassion would outweigh old grudges. Little did I know how wrong I was.
When I brought Mom home with me, we decided the guest room would be the best option for her since it was cozy, quiet, and close to the kitchen. From the very first evening, she kept thanking me. “I don’t want to be a burden, Julia,” she whispered, holding my hand.
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