They Tried To Force My Remarriage

“Mom, Dad was just diagnosed with stage four liver cancer. The doctors say he doesn’t have much time left.”

When my daughter’s call came through, I was in the middle of feeding my little grandson, Mason. I was holding a spoonful of mashed sweet potatoes, the bright orange smear reflecting the afternoon sun.

My hand froze for a split second. Then, I continued the motion, guiding the spoon into Mason’s waiting mouth. “And?” I asked, my voice flat.

Natalie went silent for a few heartbeats. “I was thinking... maybe you and Dad should get remarried?