She did not say where she expected me to be included in that “we.”
The family lounge was nearly empty at 2:35. Vivian arranged the fruit from the basket onto a white tray while Daniel stood near the window. I stayed beside him, one hand resting on the strap of my hospital bag.
“You really
should eat,” Vivian said.
“I am fine.”
“After the delivery, you will need help.”
“We have help.”
“I mean family help.”
Daniel looked at the tray. “Mom, what are you asking?”
Vivian placed two grapes beside the apple.
“I am asking nothing.”
“You brought it up.”
“I mentioned the babies.”
“You mentioned arrangements.”
Vivian turned toward me.
“Elena, surely you understand that I am trying to make this easier.”
“For whom?”
She picked up a napkin and folded it once.
“For everyone.”
I waited.
She continued.
“Leo will have people who love him. Karen will be there. I will be there. Daniel will be there. There is no reason for anyone to make ordinary family support into a legal question.”
