Patricia began deciding what Sofia could eat, when she could use the television, and whether she was allowed to invite friends over.
Sofia was expected to clean up after Patricia’s children and give them the things she wanted to keep for herself.
Whenever she complained, Patricia called her ungrateful.
And whenever Sofia tried to speak to her mother, Vanessa told her not to create problems.
“Mom says Aunt Patricia has had a hard life,” Sofia explained. “She says we have to be patient with her.”
“What about you?” I asked. “Has anyone been patient with you?”
My daughter looked down.
“I don’t know.”
Those three words hurt more than any argument could have.
I had been sending money home, paying bills, and working extra shifts because I believed my family was doing well.
Meanwhile, my daughter had been learning to stay silent in her own house.
I told Sofia that she would not have to handle this alone anymore.
