My dad saw me limping down the street with my baby and groceries and asked, “Where’s your car?” When I whispered, “His mom took it… said I’m lucky they let me stay,” Dad didn’t argue. He opened the door and said, “Get in. We’re fixing this tonight

lurched. Derek’s eyes widened. “Wait—what? Lauren, don’t be dramatic.”

Patricia’s voice rose. “You will not take that baby out of this house—”

Dad finally raised his voice, just enough to cut through her. “She’s his mother.”

Silence hit hard.

And in that silence, Patricia’s smile disappeared entirely.

Patricia moved first.

She stepped between me and the continue reading …