"Would've thought that kid was worth something. Too bad she didn't kick it sooner; we could've been enjoying this big house for years."
"Pity, though, she was quite the moneymaker."
His feigned sympathy couldn't fool anyone.
"Mom, drop it. We're moving to a new place, no need to drag up bad vibes."
My brother barked at her, disgust plain on his face.
Mom merely smiled a calm, serene smile and held her peace.
The soft glow of the lamp cast a gentle light on her face, her smile tender, her gaze filled with love for her son and grandson.
Turns out, my mom could indeed be a wonderful mother.
The next thing I knew, I was back before the divorce.
"Jessie..."
"Dad, I'm sticking with you!"
I cut him off before he could finish, raising my voice a little too much.
"You little hellion, go with your dad then! Why are you yelling? Trying to make me deaf?"
Mom, Karen Davis, let out her sharp tirade, her voice cutting through the air.
"You're just a thankless viper! I raised you with blood, sweat, and tears, and this is how you repay me—siding with that no-good, cheating father of yours!"
I caught a glimpse of Mom, passionately making her case, her face twisting with the strain of her shouts.