Chapter 23 - Linda Returns to the House
Not for two years.
Ethan was six.
He asked if Grandma could come see his new Lego table.
I said:
“This house?”
“Yes.”
My stomach tightened.
Therapist:
“Whose anxiety is this?”
Mine.
We set rules.
One hour.
Ryan present.
No going through closets.
No closed doors with Ethan.
No criticism of room.
No gifts unless approved.
Linda arrived.
Stopped at bedroom doorway.
“Can I come in?”
Ethan looked at me.
Then:
“Yes.”
That question alone represented years.
She entered.
Saw his bed on different wall.
Rocket lamp.
Superman costume hanging from hook.
Dino on shelf.
She did not touch.
“This looks nice.”
Ethan said:
“I picked.”
“I can tell.”
Then he showed Lego table.
Linda asked before moving one figure.
“Can I?”
“Yes.”
Nothing dramatic.
At fifty-two, Linda was learning kindergarten consent.
May you like
Better late than never.
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