Everyone else looked just as shocked. But Mom kept going. "Luckily, it's not too serious. With some conservative treatment, I might be okay. But your brother just bought a new house, and money's tight. Your dad and I, well, we don't make much. You're the only one who went to college. You've got a bright future. I don't want to waste money on my treatment. I'd rather save it for you guys."
She smiled that soft, motherly smile, but it didn't reach her eyes.
Alexander, my brother, jumped in right away.
"Mom, don't say that. Even if I have to borrow money or beg, I'll make sure you get treated. Lily feels the same way, I'm sure. And if we don't have enough, she'll chip in too. She's got a good job, and makes good money. I heard those big companies give out huge bonuses. Worst case, she could apply for an overseas assignment and make even more. And she's smart-- she could easily find a divorced guy to marry if she wanted. After all, you raised her and paid for her college. She wouldn't refuse to help."
They had calculated my worth down to the last cent. The greed on their faces made my stomach turn.
"Ugh-- " I bolted to the bathroom.