“I’m sure,” I said, my voice stronger than I’d felt in years. “That payment stops today.”

When I hung up, I noticed my hands had stopped shaking. For the first time in months, I could breathe freely. Tomorrow was Mother’s Day, and I would spend it alone. But it would also be the first day of my new life. A life where I would no longer sacrifice my dignity for people who saw me as nothing but a burden.

Three days passed without a word. Then, the phone rang. David’s number. This time, I answered.

“Where’s the mortgage payment?” No greeting. No, “How are you, Mom?” Just anger.