On others she needed more rest.

Her counselor helped her identify the difference between ordinary worry and the fear left behind by Eleanor’s threats.

One evening, while Liam slept, Maya told me she wanted to return to her work as an illustrator when she felt ready.

Before the delivery, she had accepted small freelance projects and hoped to grow her business.

Eleanor had called it a hobby and complained that a mother should have no interests outside her children.

“I stopped showing you my drawings,” Maya admitted.