Turning Up the Heat
Lily’s frustration deepened with each passing day. “Paul, we’re married now—we need our own space. I can’t keep dealing with your mother being here all the time,” she said, her voice heavy with exasperation. “We can’t even have a private conversation without her walking in,” she added one evening, moments after Harriet had once again interrupted them. Paul sighed, the weight of conflicting loyalties pressing down on him—his unwavering bond with his mother and his commitment to his wife. “I understand, Lily,” he said softly. “But she’s done so much for us, and it’s only temporary.” His words were meant to soothe her, but they barely touched the tension etched across her face.
Turning Up The Heat
A Brewing Storm
Harriet, oblivious to the underlying tension, continued to lavish the couple with affection and attention. She genuinely believed her presence was a comfort, helping them navigate the early days of married life. One evening, as Harriet burst into the room clutching an old photo album to share, Lily’s patience finally snapped. Once Harriet had left, Lily turned to Paul, her frustration boiling over. “Paul, we can’t keep living like this!” she exclaimed. “We need to find our own place, even if it’s just a tiny apartment. I can’t handle this anymore.”
A Brewing Storm