“Then why does Grandma keep saying I’m the most expensive kid in this house?” he asked, a tear rolling down his cheek.

“Because sometimes grown-ups are foolish, cruel and totally blind to what really matters in life,” I answered, laying the notebook gently on his desk.

“Are you super mad at Grandma right now?” he whispered.

“Yes, Austin, I’m very angry with her,” I answered truthfully, refusing to ever lie to him again.

“Are you mad at me too, Mom?” he asked, shrinking back a little.

I reached out and pulled him into my arms, holding him so tight I could feel his quick heartbeat thumping against my chest.