Derek can visit, but not if he disrupts her rest.

And you cannot use the phrase ‘man of the house’ to excuse treating either of us like we are guests.”

Lucas listened. “Okay.”

“There’s more.

We need couples counseling.

If you refuse, I will make decisions about my future without pretending this is normal.”

He took a long breath.

“I don’t like talking to strangers about our marriage.”