I stared, wondering whether Ryan understood his own decision. Linda smiled triumphantly from the sofa.
“That’s my boy,” she declared. “A wife can come and go, but a mother is forever. I’m glad you finally understand who deserves your loyalty.”
We had been married seven years, the last four spent in a beautiful five-bedroom house outside Charlotte, North Carolina. Recently promoted to regional sales director on $180,000 annually before taxes, Ryan apparently believed he could make financial decisions alone.
“And who’s paying the mortgage, utilities, groceries, and everything else?” I asked.
He laughed as though the answer should be obvious.
“You have your own career, Madison. Stop worrying about my money and let Mom handle it.”
Linda straightened the costly gold watch circling her wrist.
“Honestly, Madison, it’s embarrassing how jealous you get when my son wants to take care of his mother.”
