I had been sending 1.5 million pesos each month to my mother to take care of my wife after childbirth.

I placed it in front of her.

“There’s money here,” I said.

My mother looked at him.

“It’s enough for you to find a small apartment nearby.

His eyes widened.

“What…?”

“I’m not going to argue with you,” I continued calmly. You will always be my mother. And I will always respect you.

Breathed hondo.

“But my wife—” and my son… They’re my family now.

My mother looked at me as if she didn’t recognize me.

“Are you kicking me out of your house?”

The question was mild.

But heavy.

“No,” I answered.

I looked into her eyes.

“I’m protecting mine.”

That night was strangely quiet.

Hue barely spoke during dinner.

I made hot soup, fresh fish, and freshly made rice.

When I put the plate in front of her, she hesitated.