Because their kid is “too loud,” Alice can’t believe her husband Jake abandoned her and their infant Lily. Alone and overburdened, Alice seeks support from his mother in an effort to make Jake see the price of his self-centeredness. With Barbara’s help, Alice intends to make him second-guess his choice. What actions will she and Barbara take?
Lily’s warm breath caressed my chest as I pulled her tight. There was stillness in the living room except for the steady creak of my rocking rocker.
With all the responsibilities that awaited me, my mind was racing. Even though I was worn out from doing the dishes, I loved spending this time alone with my little kid. I had to schedule some time to gently rock her to sleep.
We had only had Lily for a few weeks. Those weeks passed in a haze of unrelenting exhaustion and wonderful mayhem.
Taking care of Lily – feeding her, changing her diapers, and attempting to maintain our home tidy – consumed my days. Even if sleep was an uncommon luxury, I was grateful for every second I spent with her.
Jake appeared aloof at the same moment, like a shadow in his own house. He struggled with the new realities of parenting, appearing to be elsewhere even while he was physically there.
I saw Jake rushing to stuff his clothing into a suitcase at the bedroom door as I pulled Lily closer.
What are you doing, Jake? Confused, I asked.
He said, “I’m going to stay at Mike’s place for a few weeks,” without turning around.
I felt a knot in my gut. How come? Why not?
After zipping up his suitcase, Jake turned to face me. “The infant is making too much noise.” Alice, I need some time to unwind after this chaos! You had best figure out a way to make this place habitable before I return!”
His remarks had a punch to them. “You can’t just walk away, Jake. Our child has arrived! You are needed here. I stated.
With a shrug, he draped the bag across his shoulder. “Alice, I can’t manage this at this time. All I need is some room.
My eyes filled with tears and I started to cry. “Jake, please stay with us. We must deal with this as a family.
However, he shook his head, showing no regret on his face. “I will return in a few weeks.” Just… figure it out,” he said icily, shattering my heart with his lack of concern.
Gazing down, I saw Lily’s little face, content and oblivious to the situation.
I was sorry and angry at the same time as I embraced her tighter, a tear rolling down my cheek. I felt so alone at that time, but I knew I had to be strong for her.
When Jake departed, I was shocked. How in the world could he just leave like that? Although he had never offered any assistance, this desertion was devastating.
I grabbed for the phone, desperate. I had to get help, and the only person I could think of to contact was Barbara, Jake’s mother. After Lily was born, we had originally desired seclusion, but right now more than anything, I needed help.
I shook my hands while I tried to call her.
After a few rings, Barbara answered, her voice as happy as ever. “Hi Alice! What’s up with you and my adorable granddaughter?
“Hello, Barbara,” I murmured, my voice quivering. “I apologize for calling you out of the blue, but I truly need your assistance.”
Barbara’s voice abruptly became more serious. “Dear, what’s wrong?”
Jake just walked away. He indicated he will not be returning for a few weeks since he needs time away. The whole thing is overwhelming me. Would you kindly come on over?
The person on the other end of the line hesitated. Naturally, Alice. I promise to arrive as quickly as I can.
“Barbara, thank you. There is nothing more that I can do. In desperation, I answered.
Alice, keep going. Together, we’ll work through this, she reassured me.
With a little ray of optimism, I hung up the phone. There would be help soon. I glanced down at Lily, who was still soundly dozing in my arms.
“Sweetheart, it’s going to be okay,” I said as I kissed her small forehead. We’ll overcome this.
I moved to the couch and reclined, inhaling deeply to slow my pounding heart. Anxiety tore at me while I waited.
Asking Barbara to remain seemed like a big ask; how could I make her do it? However, the unsettling query persisted: how would I do things by myself? While I waited for her to arrive, these concerns raced through my head.
There were no friends I could turn to for support.
I had to organize everything and, if necessary, figure out how to handle everything by myself. But I would not be alone, at least not tonight. I figured Barbara would be here soon, and we would decide what to do together.
The doorbell interrupted my train of thinking. I got to my feet, inhaled deeply, and opened the door. Barbara was standing there.
I knew I had made the correct decision, and as I ushered her in, I felt a wave of relief.
“Hello, Alice, how are you doing?” She asked, giving me a firm embrace.
The floodgates opened, and I was left unable to stop crying. It’s been so difficult, Barbara, I wailed. Jake has been being so aloof lately, and now he’s just abandoned us. He went to stay at Mike’s apartment, saying he wanted space.
Barbara listened, her expression becoming more serious as she said. I told her about the insults Jake had hurled at me, the never-ending duties, and the restless evenings.
She allowed me to release all of the hurt and annoyance I had been holding within without interjecting.
Barbara looked serious when I finally finished. “Where was he supposed to go again, anyway?”
“Mike’s house,” I said, blotting away my tears.
Barbara pulled out her phone without thinking. “This is completely inappropriate. Her voice was forceful and determined as she spoke, “He needs to be here, supporting you.”
Holding my breath, I watched as she swiftly called Jake. It was not long before he picked up.
This is your mother, Jake! A man like him is not what I raised! I will treat you like a stranger if you treat your family like strangers! Return home and assume responsibility, she sternly commanded.
Jake’s reply was not audible to me, but Barbara’s comments said volumes. She was enraged and resolved to give him a hard lesson.
Her expression softened as she turned back to face me as she hung up.
“You’re not by yourself in this, Alice. I’ll spend the night with you and take care of Lily. We will plan tomorrow morning. I’ll make sure that loser feels bad for leaving his lovely family for the rest of his goddamn life if he doesn’t return home.
I nodded, grateful and relieved at the same time. “Barbara, thank you. I had run out of options.
She gave a soft grin. “Alice, we’ll overcome this together. You’re performing admirably. Don’t allow Jake’s behavior lead you to believe differently.
We took care of Lily for the remainder of the evening, and Barbara made me a delicious meal. She made sure I had time to relax by doing the dishes as well.
I sat with her in the living room the following morning, feeling a mixture of determination and anxiety. With her small hands reaching for my face, Lily was cooing sweetly in my arms. Her naive glance brought me some comfort, so I grinned down at her.
Barbara extended her arm to caress Lily’s cheek. “It’s gorgeous, Alice. You’re performing admirably.
With a somewhat trembling voice, I said, “Thank you.” “All I want is for Jake to return today.”
Barbara squeezed my hand reassuringly. “We’ll tackle whatever unites us.”
Slowly, the minutes passed by. I kept looking at the clock, nervousness twisting in my gut. Would Jake ever return? Or would he simply abandon us once more?
I was getting tired of being unsure.
The front door creaked open, saving me from certain death.
As soon as Jake entered, looking worn out and unkempt, I held my breath. He obviously hadn’t gotten much sleep the previous evening. He looked from me to Barbara, who gave a quiet nod.
I inhaled deeply, preparing myself. I said, “Jake, we need to talk.”
He didn’t say anything, keeping his eyes on me. I plucked up the bravery and continued, though my voice was a little wobbly. “Jake, you can’t just quit when things become tough! We recently had a baby! Lily is in need of her parents both.
Jake gave a languid nod, leaving a lingering stillness. Barbara moved in closer and put her reassuring hand on my shoulder. Alice, we’re here to help you, she said. “Remember that this is a group endeavor.”
I felt a glimmer of optimism ignite inside me as I glanced at Barbara. “Barbara, thank you. Your assistance is much appreciated,” I murmured, my voice beaming with thanks.
At last, Jake spoke out, his tone tentative and low. “I realize I should perform better.”
I met his stare, determined and solid. I went on, “Jake, this isn’t simply about uttering the proper words. It’s about being there for your family and turning up every day. Promises are not enough just now.
Barbara stood up, her intensely furious gaze meeting Jake’s. “Jake, deeds speak louder than words. Recall that, she said.
I was aware that this was only the start. It remained to be seen if Jake would actually step up, but one thing was certain: I was no longer alone. Barbara’s resolute support gave me strength.
I leaned in close, cradling Lily, and said, “We’re going to be okay, sweetheart.” Day by day.
How would you have responded in the situation?
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