My Daughter and I Were Repeatedly Left Hungry Because of My Son and DIL – Was I Right to Give Them a Reality Check?

I found myself in a tough spot when my son and his wife’s actions left me and my daughter hungry on more than one occasion. It reached a point where I felt I had no choice but to give them a reality check about their behavior. This story dives into the emotional struggle of deciding whether it was right to stand up for us.

A mother and daughter | Source: Pexels

A mother and daughter | Source: Pexels

Let me take you back to when my home was quieter, and a little less crowded, but always filled with love. My name is Lucy, and I’ve lived in this cozy three-bedroom house for over twenty years.

It’s seen many phases of my life, but the latest has been quite the adventure. You see, right now, it’s not just me here. My daughter Ruby, who’s in college, and my son, Brian, and his wife, Emily, also call this place home.

The woman's house | Source: Pexels

The woman’s house | Source: Pexels

Brian and Emily moved in a few months ago to save up some money, a decision we all agreed on. It seemed like a perfect plan at the time. In the beginning, things were smooth. Our home felt livelier, and there was always someone to talk to.

Couple moving houses | Source: Pexels

Couple moving houses | Source: Pexels

I’ve always enjoyed cooking, and with more people around, meal times became these wonderful, communal moments. Ruby, always buried in her books, would surface with stories from college. Brian would share updates from work, and Emily brought new energy into our home, always eager to help set the table or wash the dishes.

Woman preparing a meal | Source: Pexels

Woman preparing a meal | Source: Pexels

“Mom, dinner smells amazing!” Ruby would say, her eyes lighting up as she entered the kitchen, a stack of textbooks in her arms.

“Thanks, honey. It’s nothing special, just your favorite spaghetti tonight,” I’d reply, stirring the pot as the aroma of tomato and basil filled the air.

Brian and Emily would come down together, laughing about some inside joke or another, adding to the evening’s warmth. “Need any help, Mom?” Brian would offer, though he knew I had everything under control.

Woman in the kitchen | Source: Pexels

Woman in the kitchen | Source: Pexels

“No, no, you two go ahead and sit down. Dinner’s almost ready,” I’d insist, with a smile, happy to see my children and daughter-in-law getting along so well.

Back then, cooking for four didn’t seem like a challenge. I’ve always made it a point to prepare hearty meals that could feed us, with some leftovers for anyone to grab later. Our refrigerator was like a treasure trove of comfort food, ready to meet any late-night craving or serve as a quick lunch before heading out the door.

Fridge stocked with food | Source: Picjumbo

Fridge stocked with food | Source: Picjumbo

Our conversations around the dinner table were lively, filled with discussions about Ruby’s college life, Brian and Emily’s plans for the future, and my little stories from work. It was in these moments that I felt most content, seeing my family together, and sharing meals I prepared with love.

Family dining happily | Source: Pexels

Family dining happily | Source: Pexels

But as time passed, I started to notice changes. They were subtle at first, then unmistakably clear. The balance we had achieved and the rhythm of our shared lives began to shift, and it was not for the better. It wasn’t anything dramatic, mind you. Just little signs that the harmony we enjoyed was being tested.

Family enjoying their meal | Source: Pexels

Family enjoying their meal | Source: Pexels

Ruby began spending more time at the library, saying she needed to focus on her studies. Brian and Emily, trying to save every penny, rarely went out, which meant more meals at home. And I, well, I continued to do what I’ve always done — cook, hoping to keep everyone happy and well-fed.

Yet, as our routines evolved, so did the dynamics at our dinner table. The portions that once seemed plentiful now barely made it around. Leftovers, a common sight in our fridge, became a rarity. The feeling of abundance I took pride in providing began to slip away.

An almost empty fridge | Source: Pexels

An almost empty fridge | Source: Pexels

It’s funny how something as simple as sharing a meal can reveal so much about the state of a household. For us, it was the beginning of a realization that things couldn’t go on this way.

Little did I know, it would lead me to make decisions I never thought I’d have to, challenging the foundation of our family’s togetherness. As days turned into weeks, the change in our household’s food dynamics became impossible to ignore.

A woman thinking | Source: Pexels

A woman thinking | Source: Pexels

One evening stands out in my memory, marking the moment I realized the extent of the issue. I had spent the afternoon making a pound of spaghetti with meat sauce, a dish that had always been a hit with my family. The savory aroma filled the kitchen, promising a comforting meal after a long day.

“I’ll finish up these chores before sitting down to eat,” I thought to myself, not suspecting for a moment that there would be none left for me. But that’s exactly what happened. By the time I was ready, the pot was scraped clean, not a single noodle in sight.

Spaghetti and meat sauce | Source: Pexels

Spaghetti and meat sauce | Source: Pexels

Ruby came home later that evening, her face falling as she opened the fridge, hoping for a plate of the spaghetti she had been looking forward to all day. “Mom, did you save me any dinner?” she asked, trying to hide her disappointment.

“I’m sorry, honey,” I sighed, “It’s all gone. Brian and Emily got to it first.”

Girl looking for food in the fridge | Source: Pexels

Girl looking for food in the fridge | Source: Pexels

This wasn’t an isolated incident. Another day, I decided to bake a two-layer cake, thinking it would be a nice treat for the family. I carefully mixed the batter, poured it into pans, and watched as it rose in the oven. The cake was golden and perfect when I left for work, a sweet surprise I hoped everyone would enjoy together.

Two-layer cake | Source: Pexels

Two-layer cake | Source: Pexels

Imagine my shock when I came home to find only a thin slice left, the rest devoured in less than eight hours. My heart sank. It wasn’t about the cake or the spaghetti. It was the realization that my efforts to nourish my family were being overlooked, leaving Ruby and me out in the cold.

“Mom, this isn’t working,” Ruby finally said one night, her frustration mirroring my own. “I’m always hungry when I get home, and there’s never anything left for us to eat.”

Leftover cake | Source: Pexels

Leftover cake | Source: Pexels

I could see the toll it was taking on her, and it pained me. My daughter, who was working hard in college, couldn’t find a decent meal in her home. And I, too, felt the strain, my grocery bills climbing as I tried to keep up with the increased demand, only to be left with an empty fridge repeatedly.

“Something has to change,” I told Ruby, my mind racing for solutions. The situation was unsustainable, and unfair to both of us. It wasn’t about the food. It was about respect, consideration, and understanding — values I held dear and expected everyone in my household to share.

Woman and her daughter contemplating | Source: Pexels

Woman and her daughter contemplating | Source: Pexels

As I lay in bed that night, thoughts swirling in my head, I knew I had to address the issue head-on. No more tiptoeing around, hoping things would improve on their own. Brian and Emily needed a reality check, a reminder that this was a shared home, not a free-for-all buffet.

The next morning, I made a decision. It was time to sit everyone down and lay out the new rules, a plan to ensure fairness and respect at our dinner table. I was nervous, unsure of how my proposal would be received, but determined to restore harmony to our home.

Woman contemplating while in bed | Source: Pexels

Woman contemplating while in bed | Source: Pexels

Little did I know, that the conversation I was about to start would set off a chain of events that would challenge the very foundation of our family dynamics. But at that moment, all I could think about was finding a way to make things right, to ensure that no one in my home would have to go hungry again.

Worried elderly woman | Source: Pexels

Worried elderly woman | Source: Pexels

The tension in our home had reached a boiling point, and with a heavy heart, I knew it was time to address the elephant in the room: our food situation. Gathering my courage, I called a family meeting. This would soon prove more pivotal than any of us could have imagined.

Determined elderly woman | Source: Pexels

Determined elderly woman | Source: Pexels

“Everyone, please, have a seat,” I began, my voice steady despite the butterflies in my stomach. Brian, Emily, and Ruby settled around our kitchen table, a mix of curiosity and concern etched on their faces.

“I think we all know why we’re here,” I continued, locking eyes with each of them in turn. “Our current situation with food in the house isn’t working. It’s not fair for some of us to be left without meals.”

Brian and Emily shifted uncomfortably, while Ruby nodded, her expression was of quiet support. Taking a deep breath, I unveiled my plan.

Family meeting time | Source: Pexels

Family meeting time | Source: Pexels

“From now on, I’ll be plating everyone’s meals. We’ll also divide any leftovers evenly, labeling them for each of us. If anyone’s still hungry after that, you’re more than welcome to buy additional food for yourself.”

Silence hung in the air, my words sinking in. I could see Brian and Emily exchanging glances, their reactions a mix of surprise and disbelief.

“But, Mom, isn’t that a bit… excessive?” Brian finally broke the silence, his voice laced with disbelief.

Angry man in disbelief | Source: Pexels

Angry man in disbelief | Source: Pexels

“It’s not about being excessive, Brian. It’s about ensuring fairness and respect for everyone’s needs,” I replied, firm yet compassionate. “We have to find a way to make this work for all of us.”

The meeting ended with a tense agreement to try my new system. Despite the apprehension, I felt a glimmer of hope. That night, I carefully plated our dinner, ensuring each portion was fair and satisfying. Afterward, I divided the leftovers, labeling each container with our names before placing them in the fridge.

Packed food | Source: Freepik

Packed food | Source: Freepik

The next morning, I awoke to find Ruby in the kitchen, a smile on her face as she prepared her breakfast.

“Mom, I just wanted to say thank you,” she said, her eyes meeting mine. “Last night was the first time in a while I went to bed feeling full. And look,” she gestured to the fridge, “I actually have leftovers for lunch today.”

Her words warmed my heart, a bittersweet confirmation that my decision, though difficult, was the right one. For the first time in weeks, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. Maybe, just maybe, this could work.

Happy girl in the kitchen | Source: Pexels

Happy girl in the kitchen | Source: Pexels

I was making coffee when Brian and Emily came down. I immediately noticed the surprise on their faces as they opened the fridge and saw the labeled containers. Their expressions were a mix of confusion and disbelief.

“Mom, what’s this?” Brian asked, holding up a container marked “Brian’s leftovers.”

“It’s exactly what it looks like. It’s your portion of the leftovers,” I explained, trying to keep my tone neutral.

Packed leftover food | Source: Pexels

Packed leftover food | Source: Pexels

Emily, who had been quietly observing until now, finally spoke up, her voice tinged with irritation. “Mom, is this really necessary?” she asked. Her tone was a mix of confusion and frustration.

“Yes, it is,” I responded, my voice gentle but unwavering. “It’s important that we all have equal access to the food in this house. This is the best way I know how to ensure that happens.”

Irritated woman | Source: Pexels

Irritated woman | Source: Pexels

“This is ridiculous,” Emily finally said, her voice cold. “We shouldn’t have to live like this.”

“This feels a bit… heartless, don’t you think? We’re family, not roommates,” she continued.

Her words stung, but I stood firm. “Being a family means respecting each other’s needs. Ruby and I have been left without enough food too many times. This is about making sure everyone gets their fair share.”

Sad elderly woman | Source: Pexels

Sad elderly woman | Source: Pexels

The conversation escalated in no time. Brian, visibly upset, retorted, “We never agreed to this. You’re being heartless and treating us like children.”

“And what about Ruby? Should she have to fend for herself because you two eat everything?” I countered, my frustration growing. Ruby had been silently supporting me, her presence a quiet reminder of why I had made these changes.

“I shouldn’t have to worry about my daughter going hungry in her home,” I replied, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside me.

Visibly upset man | Source: Pexels

Visibly upset man | Source: Pexels

The argument intensified, with Brian and Emily refusing to see our perspective. “We’re trying to save money here, Mom. We can’t afford to buy extra food every time we’re a bit hungry,” Brian argued.

“And I’m trying to make sure everyone in this house is fed,” I shot back, the weight of the past weeks heavy in my voice. “But if you’re not willing to adapt or even contribute to the grocery bills, then maybe this arrangement isn’t working.”

Elderly woman angrily responding | Source: Pexels

Elderly woman angrily responding | Source: Pexels

Despite the tension, I couldn’t ignore the sense of accomplishment I felt. For the first time in a long while, Ruby and I could enjoy our meal, secure in the knowledge that we wouldn’t go hungry.

Ruby came down shortly after, having heard the tail end of our argument. She looked at me with a mix of concern and gratitude. “Mom, I know that wasn’t easy. But thank you, for standing up for us.”

Girl comforting her mother | Source: Pexels

Girl comforting her mother | Source: Pexels

Her words were a small comfort in the storm brewing in our home. I had hoped my decision would bring us closer to fairness and understanding. Instead, it drove a wedge deeper into the heart of our family.

This was a reality check for all of us, a reminder of the importance of fairness and consideration within our family. As we cleared the table, I wondered about the lasting impact of my decision. Change is never easy, but sometimes, it’s necessary for the well-being of those we love.

The elderly woman reflecting | Source: Pexels

The elderly woman reflecting | Source: Pexels

As the days passed, the atmosphere in our home grew more strained. Brian and Emily kept to themselves, their interactions with me and Ruby minimal and strained. The joy and warmth that once filled our household had been replaced by a palpable chill, a constant reminder of the cost of standing up for what I believed was right.

One evening, I asked Brian and Emily to join me in the living room. Ruby, sensing the gravity of the moment, sat quietly beside me. The air was heavy, filled with unspoken words and pent-up frustrations.

Girl sitting by her mother | Source: Pexels

Girl sitting by her mother | Source: Pexels

“Brian, Emily,” I began, my voice firmer than I felt, “this situation isn’t sustainable. We’ve all been unhappy, and it’s clear that something needs to change.”

They both nodded, their expressions guarded, waiting for me to continue.

“I’ve given this a lot of thought,” I continued, “and I’ve come to a difficult decision. If we can’t find a way to live together respectfully, following the rules we’ve set for our home, then I think it’s best if you find another place to live.”

Elderly woman telling her family her decision | Source: Pexels

Elderly woman telling her family her decision | Source: Pexels

The words hung in the air, heavy and final. Brian looked at me, his face a mixture of shock and anger, while Emily’s expression hardened.

“So, that’s it then? You’re kicking us out?” Brian’s voice was sharp, cutting through the silence.

“It’s not about kicking you out,” I replied, struggling to keep my voice steady. “It’s about respecting each other’s needs. I’ve tried to find a fair solution, but if we can’t live together peacefully, then maybe it’s time for a change.”

A woman resolute in her decision | Source: Pexels

A woman resolute in her decision | Source: Pexels

The conversation that followed was one of the hardest I’ve ever had. Voices were raised, accusations thrown, and for a moment, I feared the rift between us might never heal. But beneath the anger and hurt, I knew this was a necessary step for me, Ruby, Brian, and Emily.

After they stormed off, Ruby reached over and squeezed my hand. “Mom, I know that was tough. But, in my honest opinion, you did the right thing.”

Girl rubbing her mother's hand | Source: Pexels

Girl rubbing her mother’s hand | Source: Pexels

Her words were a balm, yet I couldn’t shake the feeling of doubt that settled in my chest. Had I made the right decision? Or had I pushed my son away?

That night, I lay awake, the house quiet around me. I replayed the events of the past weeks, each decision and argument.

As dawn broke, I realized that my ultimatum wasn’t only a demand for respect. It was a lesson in boundaries and consequences. Yes, family is about unconditional love, but it’s also about mutual respect and consideration for each other’s needs.

The woman in bed and replaying events | Source: Pexels

The woman in bed and replaying events | Source: Pexels

As I reflect on the ordeal, I can’t help but wonder about the future. Will Brian and Emily understand why I had to take a stand? Will our family find its way back to each other?

Despite the uncertainty, one thing is clear. This experience has taught us all valuable lessons about the importance of communication, respect, and compromise. And while the road ahead may be uncertain, I hold onto the hope that, in time, we’ll bridge the gap that’s formed between us.

Woman looking hopeful | Source: Pexels

Woman looking hopeful | Source: Pexels

I realized that sometimes, being a parent means making tough decisions for the greater good, even if it leads to uncomfortable confrontations. My priority was to ensure the well-being of my family, even if it meant facing resistance from those I was trying to protect.

The fallout from our confrontation was a bitter pill to swallow. I was prepared to face it, armed with the conviction that I had made the right choice for Ruby and myself. What would you have done if you were in my shoes?

While Lucy struggled with how much her son and his wife consumed food, Rachel took a different path with her children. Click here to read about the stay-at-home mother and self-proclaimed gentle parent. She explained the parenting strategies she adopted to raise her children.

Woman convicted she made the right choice for herself and daughter | Source: Pexels

Woman convicted she made the right choice for herself and daughter | Source: Pexels

This work is inspired by real events and people, but it has been fictionalized for creative purposes. Names, characters, and details have been changed to protect privacy and enhance the narrative. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental and not intended by the author.

The author and publisher make no claims to the accuracy of events or the portrayal of characters and are not liable for any misinterpretation. This story is provided “as is,” and any opinions expressed are those of the characters and do not reflect the views of the author or publisher.

My Neighbor Tried to Kick Me out of My Own Home, Until I Found a Note That Said ‘You Need to Know the Truth About Your Husband’ — Story of the Day

My neighbor made my life a nightmare, trying to push me out of the home I loved. Her cruelty seemed personal, but I never knew why—until one strange note changed everything. It said, “You need to know the truth about your husband.” What I found out shook my whole world.

Do you know the feeling when your own home turns into a battlefield? I hope not. But I knew that feeling very well. Every single morning, I opened my eyes with dread in my chest.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I never knew what kind of day it would be. Some days were quiet, but the silence felt like the calm before a storm.

Other days, something new would go wrong, and I always knew who was behind it. Meredith.

Just thinking about her made my stomach turn. I had never met anyone so bitter, so heartless.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Ross and I moved into this house after my mother passed. It was supposed to be a new start for us. But peace never came. Not with Meredith living next door.

From day one, she treated me like an enemy. She didn’t even acknowledge Ross. To her, he didn’t exist. But me—she seemed to live to make my life miserable.

She let her shaggy dog dig through my flower beds like it was his playground.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

She chopped down my beautiful tree just because a few branches leaned over the fence.

And when we grilled some burgers at six in the evening, she called the cops and said we were disturbing the peace. Six o’clock! Who does that?

I started to feel like I was losing my mind. I even stopped planting new flowers because I knew they wouldn’t last long.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

But the worst came one sunny afternoon when I was bent over pulling weeds, enjoying the quiet.

Out of nowhere, a blast of water hit me so hard I dropped my gloves. It didn’t stop.

I was soaked through like someone dumped a bucket over my head again and again. Then I saw the hose. It was coming from Meredith’s yard.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Meredith! You nasty old witch! Turn it off!” I yelled as the water blasted me straight in the face.

The stream stopped. I stood there, dripping wet, shaking with anger. Meredith poked her head over the fence like nothing had happened.

“Oh, Linda,” she said in that fake sweet voice. “I didn’t know you were out there.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Don’t lie to me!” I shouted. “You knew exactly what you were doing!”

She shrugged. “It’s just water. You’ll dry off.”

I stared at her, stunned. Then she disappeared behind the fence like I didn’t even matter.

I stormed into the house, water dripping all over the floor. My clothes clung to me, and my hair was soaked.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Ross looked up from the couch. “What in the world happened to you?”

“It was Meredith!” I snapped. “Go talk to her. You used to live near her, didn’t you?”

“That doesn’t mean we were friends,” he said.

“I don’t care. Say something to her. I’ve had enough!”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Ross sighed. “Why don’t we just move? Sell this house. Start over. We could make some money on this house. I even found a few listings.”

I cut him off. “No! I’m not letting that woman chase me out of my own home!”

“But, Linda—”

“I said no! I’m done talking!” I turned and headed to the bathroom to wash away the cold and my rage.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

But Ross never talked to Meredith. I asked him more than once, but he always gave the same excuse.

He said he did not have time. To be fair, he really had been working late a lot. I figured maybe it had something to do with retirement.

He was almost fifty. So was I. I thought maybe he had plans and just did not want to talk about them yet.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I never once suspected anything else. I was not some nervous young wife. I trusted him.

Still, he kept bringing up moving. Over and over. “We should sell,” he’d say. “This place isn’t worth it.” But to me, it was home.

One day, I saw Andrew, Meredith’s son, walking up to Meredith’s door. He had a bag in one hand and a tired look on his face.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Good afternoon, Linda,” he said when he saw me standing by the garden. “How have you been?”

I crossed my arms. “I’d be just fine if your mother would leave me alone.”

Andrew let out a deep sigh. “I know. I’m sorry. I’ll try to talk to her again.”

“Thanks,” I said. “I hope it helps.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I could not understand how such a kind and polite young man like Andrew came from someone like Meredith.

He always greeted me with respect. He listened. He even tried to help. It made no sense. Maybe he got his good side from his father.

I had never seen the man. No one else had either. The neighbors only whispered about him.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

They said he left Meredith when she was pregnant. I believed it. With the way she acted, I could imagine someone walking away.

Still, it didn’t make it right. A man should never leave a woman like that. No matter what. A child needs a father. Andrew deserved better.

I made myself a hot cup of tea and stepped into the garden. The air felt calm. I needed some peace.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Ross was still at work, and I wanted a quiet evening alone. I sat down near my flowers and took a sip. Then I heard her voice.

“My Andrew got a big promotion,” Meredith said, peeking over the fence. “He’s also getting married soon.”

“Congratulations,” I said, lifting my cup without looking at her.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

She didn’t stop. “It must be hard for you. No children. No one to celebrate.”

Her words hit me like a stone. She knew it hurt. She always brought it up. She wanted me to feel small.

I stood up. “Go to hell, Meredith!” I yelled. I turned and walked straight into the house, my chest tight, my eyes burning.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I had always dreamed of being a mother. I pictured holding a baby in my arms, watching them grow, teaching them everything I knew.

But Ross kept putting it off. He always had a reason. “Not yet,” he’d say. “We can’t afford it.” “Maybe next year.” Year after year, I waited.

I trusted him. I thought he knew best. Then one day, I realized I was almost fifty. It was too late.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

That was the one deep regret I carried. I should have pushed harder. I should have spoken up. But now it was done. No children. No second chance.

The next morning, I went to the farmers’ market. Ross said he’d stay home.

When I got back, his car was already gone. I put away the groceries and stepped out to check the mailbox.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I sorted through bills, ads, and catalogs. Then I saw it—a plain white envelope with no name.

I opened it right there on the porch. Inside was a short note: You need to know the truth about your husband. Below that was a time and a place. Nothing more.

I looked around. No one was in sight. My heart raced. Who sent it? Why now?

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

That evening, when Ross got home, I told him I had to run some errands. Then I left to find out the truth.

The meeting was to take place in a small park not far from our house. I got there early and sat on a bench.

My heart beat fast. I looked around, trying to guess who had sent the note.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Then I saw her. Meredith. She walked toward me with a stiff face and steady steps.

“So this was your doing?” I asked as I walked up. “What do you want from me now?”

“It’s time you knew everything,” she said, her voice low and flat.

“Knew what? Another game? More lies? I don’t have time for this.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I saw Ross. He left your house. A young woman got in his car. Then he kissed her.”

I blinked. “No. You’re lying.”

She pulled out her phone. “Am I?” She showed me the screen. I looked at it. It was Ross. In his car. Kissing a young woman.

I stared. “No… He wouldn’t… He wouldn’t do that to me.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Meredith shook her head. “What did you expect? A man who cheats once will cheat again.”

“He’s never cheated on me,” I said. My voice sounded small.

“Not on you. But he cheated before. You took him from someone else.”

“What are you talking about?” I asked. My heart pounded in my chest.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Do you even know why I hate you?”

“I really don’t know. You’ve hated me since day one.”

“Don’t act like you don’t know! You left my son without a father!”

“How? I didn’t even know you until four years ago!” I shouted.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“You took Ross from me! I was pregnant when he left. He left because of you!”

I froze. “Wait… Are you saying Ross is Andrew’s father?”

“Yes,” she said. “That’s exactly what I’m saying.”

My legs went weak. I sat down. “No… no… I didn’t know. I swear to you, Meredith. I had no idea. I never would’ve done that.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Meredith’s face changed. Her arms dropped. “You really didn’t know?”

I shook my head. “No. God. I… Oh my God. Everything I thought I knew about him… it’s all wrong.”

She looked away. “I don’t even know what to say now.”

“It makes sense now. Why you treated me like that. If I were you, I’d hate me too.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Meredith looked down. “If I had known you didn’t know… I might have acted differently.”

“Why didn’t he help you? Even if you weren’t together, he should have helped Andrew.”

“There were no problems between us. Not until I told him I was pregnant. After that, he disappeared.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I shook my head. “If we count the dates… Ross and I were already together when you were pregnant.”

“I found out later. He told me. Said he had cheated. Said it was you.”

“You should’ve come to me back then. Told me the truth.”

“I hated you. Ross told me you knew about me. That you didn’t care.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I looked up at her. “Why tell me all this now?”

“Because no one deserves to be lied to the way I was. You’re living the same lie I lived. I don’t want that for you.”

I nodded. “Thank you for telling me. I’m sorry for everything.”

“So am I. I’ve said a lot of terrible things to you.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“It’s all right. We’ll deal with that later. Right now, I need to deal with the one who caused all this.”

I gave Meredith a ride home. Neither of us spoke. My hands gripped the wheel tight. My heart pounded.

When I got home, I saw Ross in the kitchen. He looked up and smiled like nothing had happened.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Linda, you were gone so long,” he said. “I was starting to worry. I have some news. I found a good realtor. I think we should move soon.”

I dropped my keys on the counter. “I am not selling this house. You can go wherever you want. I am staying.”

Ross frowned. “What are you talking about?”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I know everything,” I said. “About Meredith. About Andrew. About the young woman you kissed in your car.”

He stepped back. “Linda, I can explain.”

“I don’t want your lies. I’ve heard enough. Just get out.”

“Please, let’s talk this through,” he said.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Talk about what? How you’ve lied for years? How you planned to sell this house and spend the money on your new girlfriend?”

“We can still fix this,” he said.

“Fix what? I don’t want to live with a man like you anymore. Get out of my house!”

He snapped. “Who else would want you? You have no kids. No one but me.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I stared at him. “I’ll manage. I’d rather be alone than be with you.”

After those words, Ross grabbed his coat and stormed out, slamming the door behind him so hard the walls shook.

I stood still, listening to the silence he left behind. I knew divorce at my age would be hard.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

But I also knew one thing for sure—it would be better than living a lie. Maybe now, with him gone, Meredith would stop trying to punish me.

Maybe we both could finally breathe. One thing was certain—Ross could go to hell, and I wouldn’t miss him at all.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

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