My mother pursed her lips.
—In my time, women ate much less after giving birth. That is why they were strong.
Hue lowered his head even more.
I saw her.
His shoulders trembled.
At that moment I understood something.
If I didn’t say anything…
This would never end.
I took a deep breath.
“Mom,” I said calmly. The money I send you every month… what is it for?
She answered without hesitation:
“To help take care of the house.
“No.
My voice was firm.
“It’s for you to take care of my wife.
Silence filled the room.
My mother stared at me.
“So now you’re going to believe her instead of your own mother?”
The question hung in the air.
I looked at Hue.
Then I looked at the bowl.
Then I looked at my mother.
“No,” I said at last.
“I believe in what I see.
My mother opened her mouth… But no word came out.
I took the bowl and picked it up.
“Would you eat this?”
She was silent.
“Would you give it to someone you love?”
Nothing.
Silence was a sufficient answer.
I walked over to the table and pulled an envelope out of my pocket.
I placed it in front of her.
“There’s money here,” I said.
My mother looked at him.
“It’s enough for you to find a small apartment nearby.
His eyes widened.
“What…?”
“I’m not going to argue with you,” I continued calmly. You will always be my mother. And I will always respect you.
Breathed hondo.
“But my wife—” and my son… They’re my family now.
My mother looked at me as if she didn’t recognize me.
“Are you kicking me out of your house?”
The question was mild.
But heavy.
“No,” I answered.
I looked into her eyes.
“I’m protecting mine.”
That night was strangely quiet.
Hue barely spoke during dinner.
I made hot soup, fresh fish, and freshly made rice.
When I put the plate in front of her, she hesitated.
“You can eat,” I said softly.
Hue looked at me.
“Really…?”
Leave a Comment