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I turn on the radio, needing a distraction, and “Tell Me Why” by Three Days Grace is playing Story ofI love, and I will protect her with my life

Finally hoh as I run my hand over ain I wash as les with in with

I’ve oing to get anything right?

I make Marisa breakfast after I wake her up Then we pack up her lunch and I take her to her preschool

She goes half days to a local pre-K for three-year-olds It has been great socialization for her and a welco s in our life Before, she only went because Monte felt that was the “appropriate” thing for her to do, but of course it was added to my balance sheet, as the school didn’t come cheap

“Mrs Timmons, I don’t kno to tell you this” Carrie, the school director, comes out from her office to talk to me

I give Marisa a quick goodbye, send her off to her classroom, then nod, wide-eyed, at Carrie

“Your husband called, and he explained your separation He also infor Marisa’s tuition”

My heart sinks, my stomach drops, and suddenly my feet feel like complete lead Checks and balances Tip the scales to stay in control—that is Monte’s mentality

After a moment, she continues, “Mr Tie for your daughter”

I drop to my knees in front of her as my world crumbles further Tears freely flon ivesShe has a school to run, and it’s not good for business to have a ives et ht, and fast

Checks and balances

Squaring my shoulders, I stand and wipe my tears Tip the scales all you want, Monte I will not bow, and I will not break

Spendingas we can stay with Jamie for a few months, I can pay the tuition I can’t otten ame

I have to get in one of the games