Chapter 3 - The Day I Said No
The breaking point came on a Tuesday morning.
I had an algebra exam that determined whether I could enter the advanced program the following semester.
Mom walked into my room at six-thirty carrying Grace.
“You’re staying home.”
“I can’t.”
“Ben has a cough.”
“I have a test.”
She placed the baby in my arms anyway.
“I’m pregnant, Savannah. I need support.”
“You need childcare.”
Her expression changed.
“What did you say?”
“I can’t keep raising your kids.”
The words hung between us.
For a moment, Mom looked genuinely shocked—not because I had insulted her, but because a tool she depended on had spoken.
“They are your brothers and sisters.”
“They are your children.”
She slapped the wall beside my head.
“You live under my roof.”
“I barely attend school because of your roof.”
Mom threatened to take my phone, withdraw me from classes, and tell everyone I was unstable.
That afternoon, I called Helena from the school counselor’s office.
My aunt arrived with an overnight bag and spoke to the counselor before taking me home.
Mom sent forty-three messages.
Some begged.
Some cursed.
The last one said:
If you don’t come back tonight, I’ll make sure the police drag you home.
May you like
I thought it was another threat.
The knocking came the following morning.
