Mama yelled at me for another half an hour before I was sent to my room to "think about it."

For the first time I really contemplated running away. This was for the birds. I was a grown-ass woman trying to live in another grown-ass woman's house. I was trying to do good here. I didn't need to be chastised and walking on eggshells around her.

You know what, just forget it. Let her grow into a bitter old woman. I am done helping her.

I put my pillow over my head ...