My daughter filled three shopping carts, and when the cashier announced the total was 980 dollars, she ordered me in front of everyone, “Pay. It’s the least you can do for living with us.” I closed my wallet, said “No,” and walked away without arguing. She still didn’t know that later that night, I would stop paying for something far more important than groceries.

Clinton slammed his hand against the post again.

“This whole thing is completely absurd!”

Clara stepped out onto the porch right behind me, crossing her arms tightly.

“What is absurd is coming to my private property and screaming like a madman,” Clara scolded him sharply.

Clinton ignored her completely and focused his anger back on me.

“Margaret, you gave us that money voluntarily four years ago, so do not stand there trying to threaten us!”