“I took care of Hazel all day while dealing with our broken bank cards,” I replied in an even, measured tone.

“You are an ungrateful burden who brought nothing of value into this marriage,” Brenda spat, waving her manicured hand dismissively.

“If you try to fight Brandon on this budget, I will make sure the judge throws you out onto the street without a single penny to your name.”

Wayne cleared his throat uncomfortably and touched his mother’s shoulder, trying to calm her down.

“Mom, that is enough, because this is between Brandon and Paige,” Wayne muttered softly, looking down at the tiled floor.