{Plot Twist}: Tough to Stomach

“Hey. Where are the kids? I was thinking pizza for dinner. Maybe from the new place that opened down the street?”

“At my mother’s house. We tried that place already. The kids thought the crust was doughy. I wanted to talk, and I don’t want them to witness.”

“That’s ominous.”

“It doesn’t have to be. That’s really up to you.”

“I don’t understand.”

“I want to know why you’re so distant suddenly. Actually, not suddenly, it’s been weeks. I was trying to ignore it. I thought maybe you were just having a moment.I thought you’d let me in when you were ready.”

“I still don’t understand.”

“You live in a different world. You are completely spaced out all the time. Even when it’s just you and me. I can’t have a conversation with you anymore. The kids noticed and asked me what was going on.”

“I would never hurt our children.”

“See this is what I’m talking about. You didn’t even hear what I said. I know you would never hurt our children. I didn’t say that. I said that you are spaced out and not paying attention, and the children noticed.”

“When was this?”

“It doesn’t matter when it was. The point is they are concerned. I’m livid.What is going on with you?”

“What do you want from me?! I am dedicated to this family.”

“I know that! I want you to tell me what it is that has your attention all the time. Explain it to me. What is going on with you?”

“I am doing what you’ve asked of me. I take care of children.”

“You better care for the children. They’re your children, but that still isn’t the issue. What —or maybe who—is it that has taken all of your attention?”

“I haven’t done anything. I’m going to get dinner. Go get the children. I don’t owe you an explanation.”

“Don’t walk away from me. You owe me whatever I ask for! Whatever I ask of you is what you owe. I gave you a life and a home and a family. If I say you owe me your life, then you just do. I don’t know where you got the idea that you don’t owe me, but you’re wrong. That’s what it means when you have a family with someone. Luckily for you, I’m not asking…”

“A tumor.”

“… for your life. Just an expla— What?”

“My doctor found a tumor. I had some irregular blood work. Then a scan. There’s a tumor on my stomach.”

“I don’t understand.”

“I didn’t want to worry you. I didn’t want to scare the children. But apparently I did that anyway.”

“I still don’t understand.”