I remained seated, phone in hand.
Heather finally spoke.
“I’m sorry.”
I nodded.
“I know.”
She looked down.
“I still don’t know what I’m going to do Monday.”
Her voice cracked.
“My supervisor already warned me about missing another day. Ben was sick twice last month, and I had to use most of my remaining paid time off.”
I understood her fear.
She had three children relying on her, employment she couldn’t afford to lose, and a brother who’d promised help without having the authority to offer it.
I nearly volunteered.
The words were ready: I could watch them Monday while she searched for alternatives.
Calling Dr. Bennett and taking a day off would be easy.
Perhaps two days.
Or a few more until Heather found someone.
But I understood how quickly temporary assistance could turn into an obligation.
And Seth had been relying on precisely that possibility.
