Chapter 26 - MOM AND LAUREN
Mom’s relationship with Lauren nearly ended.
For two years, Lauren allowed only short visits.
No unsupervised care with Sophie.
Not because Mom had assaulted anyone.
Because Lauren no longer trusted her judgment during family conflict.
Mom hated it.
Then stopped arguing.
That helped.
She completed counseling focused on enabling and family boundaries.
No public redemption arc.
No volunteer job designed to symbolize anything.
She learned to hear:
I don’t want advice.
And answer:
Okay.
At Sophie’s third birthday, Mom brought one present.
Not twelve.
Asked before posting photographs.
Accepted no.
Small changes.
Lauren eventually let her babysit for forty-five minutes while she went to the pharmacy.
Then two hours.
May you like
Years.
Trust returned in teaspoons.
