I went to my room and felt strangely calm. I looked at the old photo album and remembered the day we bought the apartment in 1987.
George and I worked so hard for this. We did all the renovations ourselves.
We had housewarming parties and bought records every month. Now Melinda wanted to throw it all away.
I decided to go to the bank and a lawyer. The bank teller said I had only three payments left on the mortgage.
The lawyer said I had the legal right to ask them to leave. He called it emotional mistreatment.
I told the family that I was going to spend a week with Rosie. Melinda was furious because she wanted me to cook and clean.
Phillip apologized, but I told him apologies only matter when they are followed by change. I spent a wonderful week with Rosie.
Chloe called every night and said they missed me. I returned with an official notice to vacate.
I handed the envelope to Phillip. Melinda screamed that I could not make them leave.
I told her that thirty days was more than the law required. I offered the children the choice to stay with me.
Skyler and Jace both chose to stay. Melinda stormed out while Phillip followed her.
I was left with my grandchildren. I put on a record by a jazz artist that George loved.
I started dancing in the living room. Skyler said she had not seen me dance in years.
I told her it was time to remember how. I was finally back to the real me.
