My mother–in–law just cried, hiding behind me and acting all sorry for herself.
Mandy was so mad that she looked like she was about to faint, and she almost lost her baby. She turned away to call her husband, who loved to gamble.
She was off to the side, probably cooking up some new scheme.
Edwin also rushed over, and when he found out it was his mom who nearly killed the child to save a few pennies, his expression looked worse than if he had eaten something rotten.
He whispered a scolding to his mom as he did not want to make a scene. Then, he turned to me and
in a low but sharp voice, “Janice, you’re out all day and haven’t been bringing Teresa home. If you d
cared a little, none of this would’ve happened.
just
“My mom’s old, and you’re leaving everything to her. You’re the daughter–in–law, so this is partly your
Chapter 6
fault too!!!
I was not having any of it. I stepped up and slapped him twice.
+25 BONUS
“Don’t play dumb with me. I know you’re jobless, living off your mom’s money like it’s your paycheck. You’ve got some nerve!
“I’m out there every day, working hard to keep us afloat. My parents are taking care of Teresa to lighten your burden while I’m supporting you and your sister. And now, you’re saying it’s my fault? That’s it. I want you all out of my house, now!”
Edwin’s anger fizzled out when his secrets spilled out. He knew they all needed me.
“I’m sorry, honey. I lost my head. I’ll get a job tomorrow, I promise! And I know my brother–in–law’s a piece of work. He won’t let this go easily,”
He shot a worried look at his mom, his face a storm cloud of fear.
When it suited him, it was all love and respect. However, when his interest was involved, he would make a fuss.
I stood my ground. “You brought them to my house. Weren’t you scared of trouble then? This is your mess, and he’s your brother–in–law. What’s he gonna do, eat you? I’m done. Your sister can’t stay in the house anymore either. If she does, you’re all out!”
They knew they were wrong. With me standing firm, they did not dare argue.
No sooner had I left than Mandy’s husband, David Lewis, showed up.
He was worried because he did not have any money for gambling lately and figured he could use his son’s situation to get some cash.
He opened his mouth and asked for 15 thousand dollars. “You need to make sure my son gets better. If he has any lasting problems, you owe me 15 thousand dollars for the trouble! If not, I’ll accuse you of hurting him on purpose!“
