Chapter 5: The Help

Carol loved her grandchildren deeply.

If Sam and Jennie had simply asked for help, she would have come willingly.

She would have packed snacks, watched cartoons, wiped sticky hands, folded tiny shirts, and rocked Brad through naps without complaint.

But they had not asked.

They had used the ocean as bait.

Carol looked down at the schedule again. Her fingers tightened around the paper, but her voice stayed soft.

“You invited me because you wanted a babysitter.”

Jennie sighed as if Carol were being difficult.

“You’re their grandmother. It’s not babysitting.”

Before Carol could respond, Matt spoke from near the window.

His voice was barely above a whisper.

“Dad said Grandma isn’t really on vacation.”

The room went still.

Sam turned sharply.

“Matt.”

But the boy had already finished the sentence.

“He said she’s the help.”

Jennie snapped at him instantly, but the damage was done.

Carol folded the paper calmly.

“You’re right,” she said softly. “I should know my place.”

Then she carried her suitcase to her room without another word.

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