"My dad died when I was young. My mom remarried and left. I've been on my own ever since. Marrying into your family is a good thing for me. I won't be alone anymore."
"And since I'm marrying in, of course the kids will take your name. Don't worry about it."
Who could have predicted that the delivery room would turn into this nightmare?
My father patted my arm to calm me, then dropped the gentle expression. His voice went low and serious.
"Jim, we had a deal. The children take the Galloway name. How could you break your promise? That's not right."
Jim's face was ashen. He looked at his mother, helpless and lost.
"I... Mom..."
Amelia raised a hand, cutting him off. Her tone turned heavy, almost solemn.
"Don't blame him. This was my decision. My son had nothing to do with it."
"You think my son and I are just after your money? That we're making trouble because we're greedy?"
"No. I'm fighting for my son's dignity."