Im 21 years old. Five years ago, my mother brought her second husband into our home. I disliked him from the moment I first saw him. He worked as a caretaker at the local school. He showed up at our doorstep with two battered suitcases and, almost immediately, started barking orders and trying to control me. Hes a repulsive sort. I have no idea what my mum possibly saw in him. His pay is dismal and half of it goes straight to his ex-wife for child support. I never got along with him, not for a moment. At first, I just held my tongue. But soon enough, I started snapping back.
After I finished my A-levels, I managed to get a place at Kings College London Medical Schoolmy lifelong dream. Ever since I was a child, Ive wanted to become a doctor. I push myself to study hard; medical school is a real uphill battle. I even managed to earn a scholarship. But six months ago, that man began griping at me constantly, going on about how Im an adult whos still sponging off my mother: Youre grown up now, Grace, but youre still relying on your mum. We shouldnt have to support you. We feed you, buy you clothes and shoes. For goodness sake, I had a job at your age! He accused me of not bringing a penny into the house, said I ought to get a job and start helping out because theres barely enough money to make ends meet. Worst of all, my mum sides with himsays hes right, claims its high time I learned about real life, that theyre just trying to keep me on the straight and narrow.
My mum turned to me and said, You could always look for a part-time job, Grace. Its not easy supporting you, love. Were not made of steel. Then, just two nights ago as we sat around the kitchen table, he declared that grown-up children ought to move out and live on their own. I was stunnedI glanced at my mum, but she remained silent, which told me she agreed.
I retreated to my room, heart pounding. The next morning, Mum came in and spoke to me about the conversation from the night before. Its so hard for me, Grace. I feel trapped between you two and the constant arguments. I just want a bit of peace in my life. Hes right: youre an adult now, and you should find your own place. Youve got a month to sort yourself out and move out. The words hit me like a punch. I never dreamed my own mother would choose to throw me out. I dont think Ill ever forgive her.
