But I didn’t argue.
We ended the call without promises about the future.
It felt more honest than most of our conversations had been.
***
The harder conversation happened with Mom.
She came to our house on a Sunday afternoon, accompanied by Dad.
I’d agreed to meet them because Dad said they wanted to discuss the changes to their household expenses.
Daniel stayed.
Not because I needed protection from my parents.
Because the financial decisions affected our marriage, and I didn’t want them assuming they could pressure me into changing my mind.
Mom arrived carrying a large shopping bag.
Inside were wedding photographs she’d printed.
She placed them on the coffee table.
“I thought you’d like these.”
I thanked her.
Then she sat down.
Dad took the chair beside her.
For several minutes, we discussed the trip.
Mom asked about the hotels.
Dad wanted to know whether the food was expensive.
Daniel showed them a photograph of a little restaurant we’d visited.
It almost felt normal.
Then Lorraine cleared her throat.
“About the insurance.”
I set down my coffee.
“Yes?”
She folded her hands.
“Your father and I have been reviewing the bills.”
“Good.”
“We can’t afford everything you’ve been paying.”
