“I want you to grow up,” I said. “At fifty-four. I know that sounds humiliating. But there it is. I want you to stop hiding behind Marissa’s comfort, your children’s expenses, and my generosity. I want you to manage the life you chose.”
His face collapsed a little at that.
Marissa stepped in at once.
“This is pointless. We came here to solve a financial crisis, and you’re giving speeches.”
I looked at her squarely.
“Exactly. You came here to solve a financial crisis. I came here to end one.”
She stared at me.
Then she grabbed her purse.
“You’ll regret this,” she said. “When you are alone, you’ll remember today.”
I walked to the front door and opened it.
“Maybe,” I said. “But I would rather be alone than accompanied only by my usefulness.”
Garrett lingered. I could see he wanted to say something that would bridge the distance between us. But bridges are not built in the same hour the fire starts.
“Mom,” he said.
“When you want to talk to me about us,” I said, “and not the bills, call me.”
He nodded once.
Rebecca came last. At the door she hugged me hard and whispered, “I’m sorry.”
“Don’t be,” I whispered back. “Just stay honest.”