At 52, I had a stroke. «The trip’s paid for, get better,» my husband said, then jetted off to the Maldives with the kids….

Looking at herself in the mirror, she couldn’t help but notice how her face had changed. The wrinkles hadn’t gone anywhere, but her gaze had become livelier, clearer. There was that inner glow that no expensive makeup could imitate.

There was a knock at the door. Instead of the expected Gloria, Mateo stood on the doorstep, pale, gaunt, in a wrinkled shirt. Mom, he started uncertainly.

Can I come in? I need to talk. Pamela silently stepped aside, letting her son into the apartment. Over the past six months, they had only seen each other twice, and both times the meetings ended in arguments and mutual accusations.

What happened? She asked once they were settled in the living room. Mateo nervously intertwined his fingers. I have problems.

I was fired from the firm. I’ve been out of work for the past two weeks. Pamela watched her son carefully, noticing the shadows under his eyes, the scruffy stubble, the trembling hands.

And what do you want from me? She asked directly. I need help, Mom. Mateo lowered his gaze.

I’ve only got enough money to pay for the room this month. After that, I don’t know what to do. Earlier, Pamela would have immediately opened her wallet or transferred the required amount.

But now, she just shook her head. Mateo, you’re a lawyer. You have an education, experience, even if limited.

Why are you coming to me for money again and not for advice or support? What difference does it make? He responded with sudden anger. You always helped. And now, because of some grudge, you’ve abandoned all of us.

Not because of a grudge, Pamela replied calmly, but because I realized I was only making things worse with my excessive care. Look at yourself honestly, Mateo. You’re 26, and you still haven’t learned how to stand on your own two feet.

That’s cruel, he whispered. It’s the truth, Pamela said softly. And you can be angry, hurt, but deep down, you know I’m right.

She approached her son and, for the first time in a long while, placed her hand on his shoulder. I can help you find a job. I have contacts in the legal field.

I can give you recommendations for interviews. But there will be no more money, Mateo. It won’t help either you or our relationship.

He looked at her distrustfully. Are you serious? You won’t even lend me money until I find a job? I won’t lend you money, Pamela confirmed. Because I know, as soon as you get my money, the incentive to find a job will disappear immediately.

Mateo jumped up. You’ve changed, Mom. You’ve become tough, heartless.

No, son, Pamela shook her head. For the first time in many years, I’ve become myself. And the strangest thing is, none of you even noticed that I was just a function, serving your needs.

When he left, slamming the door, Pamela felt not resentment, but a strange calm. A conversation like that with her son would have thrown her off balance for days before. But now, she just sighed and returned to her preparations.

She had an important task, something that gave her strength and purpose. Gloria arrived exactly on time. As soon as she saw her friend, she immediately knew something had happened.

Is everything okay? Mateo stopped by. Pamela replied briefly. He asked for money.

And you? I refused. I offered help finding a job. Gloria nodded approvingly…