At first, everything was fine.
Marcus called weekly. I heard about Rebecca’s job search and the kids’ school activities. But those updates dwindled.
Calls got shorter. Eventually, Rebecca was always “unavailable.”
When I offered to visit for Tyler’s birthday, Marcus said Rebecca’s parents would be there.
When I mentioned Emma’s art show, he dodged again. I felt more like an inconvenience than a loved one.
Then, by sheer chance, Emma answered Marcus’s phone in May. “Grandma Ruth!” she cried.
“I miss you! When are you coming? Daddy says you’re always too busy. I want to show you my purple room!”
I was stunned. Too busy? Before I could say anything, I heard Marcus.
“Emma, give me the phone!” He jumped on the line, muttered something about confusion, and hung up.
That was it. I flew to Denver unannounced.
