I imagined we would spend months protecting our food, with no clear end in sight, while everyone insisted we would discuss the details sooner or later.“I’ll respect those six weeks,” I said. “We need to figure out what happens after that.”
Diane’s voice hardened.
“I watch Noah twice a week. Does that count?”
I remembered Noah laughing with her among the scattered pillows.
“That’s what matters. I appreciate it.”
“Then maybe you should think about what you’re giving up.”
“I can appreciate this without agreeing to permanently move in together.”
“Fine. I won’t babysit anymore.”
My next shifts were on Tuesday and Thursday, both from noon to six.
I reached for my phone and mentally listed possible childcare alternatives.
Mark intervened
“Could you change your working hours for a moment?”
I stopped before unlocking the screen.
He made the promise without consulting me, Diane withdrew her help, and I somehow expected to change my job.
