She took trips, bought expensive clothes, and enjoyed spa weekends while I studied after midnight.
Whenever I mentioned leaving for college, she’d shake her head.
She asked me to help around the house.
“College isn’t realistic for everyone. You already have a home here.”
I stopped discussing applications with her.
But I kept applying.
That morning, I sat beside the front door in my interview dress.
I opened the confirmation email and found the interview contact.
My fingers shook as I typed.
But I kept applying.
I explained that my hearing aids were unexpectedly unavailable and asked whether we could arrange live captions or written questions.
Then I sent the message.
I watched the clock.
Twenty minutes passed.
No reply.
Then I sent the message.
The interview time came and went.
I pressed my palms against my eyes.
For a moment, I wanted to give up.
Instead, I opened my messages and found Aunt Ria.
