Family Sins - A Short Story Read online

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  When Sarah’s doorbell rang, she opened her door to find Michael, a big smile on his face. “Mom, Andi and I are getting married!”

  Sarah’s knees went weak, as Michael put his arm around her and led her into the living room. They sat on the sofa, next to each other.

  “Michael, this is happening so fast. You’ve only known her a few months.”

  “Six months. And I knew I wanted to marry her from the day I met her.”

  Sarah reached for her son’s hand. “Are you sure she’s the right woman for you? You’re so different, dear.”

  Michael’s eyes narrowed. “How, Mom?”

  “She’s just not the girl I thought you’d marry. You may think I’m a snob, but having a wife who’s your equal is important. You’re an orthopedic surgeon, she’s a sales clerk. You’re not equals in any way: your social status, your education, your family background.”

  Michael pulled his hand away and gripped his thigh. “We don’t live in India.”

  “I know that. But why would you want to marry a girl like her?”

  “Don’t you get that I love her?”

  A wave of anger washed over Sarah. Her son was like every other man, manipulated by a pretty girl. “I’m afraid you’re confusing lust for love. And when that wears off, you’ll see you deserve more.”

  “I couldn’t ask for a better woman to spend my life with. Andi’s the best thing that ever happened to me.”

  Sarah couldn’t believe her son was so naive. He sounded like a schoolboy. “You think she’s so sweet and funny now, but that Irish temper is going to come out one of these days. She’s going to turn into a little shrew.”

  “Not going to happen, Mom.”

  “Well, if you came here for my blessing, I can’t give it. I cannot accept her as my daughter-in-law.”

  Michael jumped from the sofa and stood in front of Sarah. “You don’t get to make that decision. Don’t make me choose between you.”

  Sarah grabbed his two hands. “I’m not asking you to choose between us. I love you, Michael. You’re the most important person in my life.”

  “Then you need to accept that she’s going to be my wife.”

  Sarah heard an edge to her son’s voice she hadn’t heard before. She wasn’t going to let this girl come between them. “I’m sorry, dear. I’m feeling a little overwhelmed right now. You know I just want you to be happy.”

  Michael sat next to her, collapsed into the cushion. “I’ve never been happier,” he said, the anger gone.

  “That’s all I ask.”

  When Michael left, Sarah pulled out a photograph he’d given her. Michael and Andrea stood with their arms around each other, their heads touched as they smiled into the camera. Sarah’s hand shook with rage as she tore the photo in two and then ripped the half with Andrea into tiny pieces.