Patricia

These past weeks have been tumultuous. The hospital has practically become Jordan’s second home. He breezes in and out of the house just to freshen up or eat. Numerous attempts to sway him into swapping days with a family member or me have fallen on deaf ears. His constant response is that Tony would do the same if the roles were reversed.

Tony and his family have been consumed with catering to Brittney’s baby, Laurene, since her discharge from the hospital. Juggling demanding classes, late-night studies, and proving myself without favoritism claims has been draining. I'm relieved Ray is safe with her grandparents.

“Süsser, are you okay?” Jordan asks, walking into the room with his hospital bag.

How do I convey the ache of returning to an empty, cold house for weeks after just getting married, without seeming selfish? I understand his closeness with Brittney, but we're all affected by her condition.

“I'm good.”

“You sure, sweet?”

“Yes. Did you forget something?”

“No, Tony forced me to