Part 1: Choosing Love When Approval Comes at a Price

January 18, 2026 by ucef

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A few weeks later, despite every instinct warning me otherwise, I introduced them.

We met at a small café near my apartment. Anna arrived late, apologizing as she rushed in with Aaron at her side. Her babysitter had canceled. There was no alternative.

Anna looked exactly like herself. Kind. Slightly tired. Real. Aaron clung to her hand, eyeing the pastry display with open curiosity.

My mother greeted them politely, but warmth never entered the room.

“You must be exhausted,” she said to Anna.

“I am,” Anna replied with a small laugh. “That’s part of the job.”