She called it improving the room.

Chloe thanked her, then called me in tears.

At the time I had told her to ignore her mother-in-law.

It seemed easier than confronting someone rich enough to make everything uncomfortable.

Now I understood how slowly dignity could be eroded.

It started with flowers, seating arrangements, passwords.

Then came demands disguised as traditions.

Chloe had once been a confident student with plans to work in pediatric nursing.