Just like that, they'd maneuvered me onto a pedestal so high I couldn't refuse without looking heartless.
The relatives and friends gathered around clearly thought I should agree. One by one, they chimed in.
"Jeanette, you and your mother-in-law can keep each other company. That way you'll both have someone to lean on."
"Matthew and Leila are offering to pay for a home aide. You won't have to lift a finger."
"Just say yes. You're emotionally fragile right now. You need someone around."
"Exactly. If anything happens, it's easier when you're together."
"A home aide can look after you, your mother-in-law, and little Caroline. It's a win-win."
Easy for them to say. None of this was landing on their shoulders. They could toss out advice without bearing a shred of the responsibility.
No matter how many of them ganged up on me, I was not going to take on the burden of caring for Kay Perry.
I lifted a hand and dabbed at my tears, letting my expression crumble into something fragile and pitiful.