Lost in thought, I didn’t notice the commotion escalating in the living room. Mila stood up, and my brother couldn’t hold her back.
“Mom, I’m telling you, switching surnames is impossible! Even if I agree, my father won’t! Your family begged us for an equal marriage to avoid financial burdens – can’t you see you can’t have it all?”
I rushed into the living room. “Mila, watch your tone! How can you speak to Mom like that? Is this the way you were raised?”
My words only fueled the fire. Mila glared at me with disdain. “Janet, let me remind you, this isn’t your place to speak! Your son can’t take your surname, so don’t you dare stop mine from taking mine!”
Bringing my son into this enraged me. “What’s wrong with my son? He can take his dad’s name! What’s the big deal about a surname? Why do you care so much? What’s the big deal about an equal marriage, anyway?”
Mila laughed, but it felt more like pity. “Janet, you might as well remember this: if your mom can’t keep you here, think about what you’re saying. Don’t let yourself be used like a pawn.”