“Is this blackmail?” His voice turned cold. “You’re using money to punish us because your feelings got hurt?”

Something broke inside me. “This isn’t about punishment, David. It’s about respect.” My voice trembled but held steady. “I’ve spent my entire life putting you first. I’m sixty years old with barely enough saved for retirement because I gave everything to you. And in return, you let your wife treat me like I’m nothing.”

“That’s not fair.”

“No, it’s not. None of this is fair. But I’m done.” I paused, gathering strength. “I love you, David. I always will. But I won’t set myself on fire to keep you and Christine warm anymore.” I hung up before my resolve could crumble.