I rubbed my temples, for the first time ignoring Marci's tear-reddened face and my in-laws, only glancing at everyone in the room. "These procedures must be completed today."
My mother-in-law released my arm and pounced on Marci like a mother hen protecting her chicks, hugging him tightly—clearly determined to defy me.
"I'll see who dares to touch my precious grandson today."
My father-in-law frowned, probably afraid I was truly determined.
Then, for the first time, he sternly criticized Marci, "Marci, did you do something to upset your mother?"
"Kneel down before her and beg her not to send you away."
Marci hesitated, then bit his lip and knelt down with a thud. “Mom, I was wrong.”
“I shouldn't have made you angry. I'll never tear up your homework again, never say your voice is unpleasant again. Please don't send me away, okay?"
Recalling all the things I'd done to Marci before, I could bear even if he kowtowed three times, let alone just this kneel.
I didn't bend down to help him; instead, I took a half step back, avoiding his outstretched hand, my gaze sweeping over my in-laws' faces. "This child must be sent away today."