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Part 1: Choosing Love When Approval Comes at a Price

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Ezoic

“Her name is Anna. She’s a nurse. She works nights at a clinic near the hospital.”

I noticed the brief approval flicker across her face.

“She’s steady,” my mother said. “Responsible. Good.”

Ezoic

“She has a son,” I added. “His name is Aaron. He’s seven.”

The pause was subtle, but it was there. She lifted her glass, took a controlled sip, and recalculated.

“That’s a great deal of responsibility,” she replied evenly.

Ezoic

“She’s a wonderful mother,” I said quickly. “And Aaron is a good kid. He told me I was his favorite adult last week.”

“I’m sure she appreciates the support,” my mother said, her tone cooling. “Men who step in are… useful.”

She never said Anna’s name again that night.

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