Walton Merritt

Elizabeth sat on the weathered sofa in her flat in Manchester, staring at the faded wallpaper she hadn’t

Emily sat in the cramped kitchen of her little flat in Manchester, staring out the window as a drizzle

My life in the little town of Pinebrook was once full of happiness: a loving mum and dad, a cosy home

**Diary Entry** I became close with my former son-in-law, but my daughter found out and declared war on me.

“Let her live alone for a while—maybe she’ll realize what she’s lost. And you, son, don’t worry

We got divorced because my wife refuses to cook The other day, my husband and I had such a massive row

It’s been four years since I last spoke to my own mother. And no, I’m not ashamed. When I got married

**Diary Entry** When I saw Pauline again after all those years—standing in the park, pushing a pram—my

**A Mother’s Rejection** *”You brought misery to our family!”* my mother screamed at me

As soon as my daughter finished school, I left my husband. “Heartless!” “