Bethany’s Proposal
Everything started the moment Bethany came up with a new plan.
She sat across from Larry, calm smile in place. “Larry,” she said softly, “don’t give the money. I’ll pay the $650 myself.”
Larry frowned. “Why would you do that?”
Control, Not Help
What Bethany didn’t say was the truth: You don’t listen to me anyway.
In her mind, paying meant power. She could question Sharra, monitor the house, and slowly push Larry out of the situation.
If I pay, Sharra will answer to me. Larry will be on the sidelines.
Peace Interrupted
Sharra stood in her new home, surrounded by boxes. Quiet. Peaceful.
Until her phone buzzed. Bethany. Again.
This time, Sharra answered — and added Larry to the call.
The Mask Slips
Bethany switched to her helpful tone: “I just want to help. I’ll pay the $650.”
Larry’s voice cut through the silence: “You’re not helping. You’re trying to control.”
Bethany snapped, “You never listen to me!”
No Access Granted
Sharra spoke calmly but firmly.
“My home isn’t a place for control. Paying money doesn’t give you access to my life.”
Brooke stepped in: “If she’s asking kids to decide — the answer is NO.”
The Breaking Point
That night, Bethany sat in her car, yanking the seatbelt tight, watching herself in the mirror.
This wasn’t just jealousy anymore. She had lost control.
Back at the house, Sharra closed the door. New home. New boundaries.
Control doesn’t live here anymore.
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