Chapter 6 - THE OFFICE STORY
Claire learned the rest from Daniel’s coworker, Michelle.
Not through spying.
Michelle dropped off a folder Daniel had left at work.
She saw Claire moving carefully.
“Oh, you’re still recovering.”
“Yes.”
Michelle frowned.
“I thought Margaret had everything covered.”
Claire looked at her.
“Why?”
“Daniel said his mom was handling the kids until you’re back on your feet.”
Handling the kids.
Claire asked:
“Did he say how long?”
Michelle hesitated.
“A month?”
Claire smiled politely.
After she left, Claire sat at the kitchen table.
A month.
Daniel had told his office.
Daniel later admitted something he had been ashamed to say.
“I liked that Mom thought I was working hard.”
Claire looked at him.
“She always has.”
“Exactly.”
At work, staying late made him responsible.
At home, Margaret’s presence let him stay the son who was doing his best while two women managed the conflict.
He had preserved two flattering identities at once.
Good employee.
Good son.
The cost was being a weak husband and an absent father when it mattered.
Told his mother.
Paid money.
May you like
Made a plan.
The only person he had not fully informed was his wife.
