But Claire Wasn’t Finished With Linda

Linda picked up her purse.

“This has gotten completely out of control.”

Claire replied:

“You helped create it.”

Linda looked offended.

“I was protecting my grandchildren.”

Claire said:

“You were protecting Evan.”

Linda replied:

“He’s my son.”

Claire answered:

“And I’m his wife.”

Then:

“Or I was.”

Linda’s face changed.

“Don’t make a permanent decision while you’re emotional.”

Claire looked around the destroyed decorations.

“You knew for three months.”

Then she pointed toward the gate.

“Please go.”

Linda Refused

“I’m not leaving you like this.”

Claire stepped forward.

“Leave.”

Linda stood her ground.

Jenna moved beside Claire.

“She asked you twice.”

Linda finally picked up her bag.

Before leaving, she said:

“Whatever happens, those children are siblings.”

Claire stared at her.

Then answered:

“That doesn’t mean their mothers have to be.”

Linda left.

That sentence would later divide the entire family.