Melanie pulled out two hundred dollars and tossed it on the table carelessly as if she were giving money to a beggar. "Here, take this. Find a motel or rent a place. It's up to you."
I forced a bitter smile. "What about James? Does he feel the same way?"
Just then, my brother, James Kessler, emerged from the bathroom. Without hesitation, he said, "Nina, you're my sister. Of course, I'm on your side. If you want to stay here, I'll clear the room for you."
It seemed James still cared about me. I nodded with relief. "Alright, I'll stay for a while."
But as soon as I said that, James' expression froze. He stood there, looking at me, but made no move to clean the room. I stared back, puzzled.
At this time, Greta walked up to me, her voice sharp. "Janina, have you lost your mind in prison? How can you be so inconsiderate? Can't you see how cramped the house is? Even if we clear out the room, it should be for the baby. You're an adult now. How can you shamelessly insist on staying here? Have some sense!"
I felt sorrowful and replied hoarsely, "Greta, this is my home. Isn't it normal for me to stay for a few days?"