Page 54 of Masquerade Mistake

“She was under the influence when it happened,” the officer says. “If convicted, she faces up to six months in jail.”

My mouth drops open. My mother will not last a week in jail, let alone half a year.

“We have a few options,” a voice says behind me. I turn to see Dr. Carrillo, the same doctor I talked with yesterday. “Please excuse us,” he says to the officer, then ushers Ethan and I down the hall. I can still hear my mother screaming, but it’s not as loud from over here.

“Your mother’s in bad shape,” Dr. Carrillo says honestly, “her liver is pretty shot. You can see it in the yellowing of her skin and eyes, and with how swollen her abdomen is.”

I’d noticed both before, but hadn’t paid either any attention. She just always appeared sickly, and I assumed her sallow skin went with it.

The doctor goes on, sharing how my mom will not survive if she continues drinking or using.

“You think I know how to get her to stop?” I blurt out. He shakes his head.

“No, I don’t,” he says. “And it’s not your responsibility, either. But there’s a place she can go to get help.” He tells us about Mountain Vista, a treatment facility up north that would take her on an emergency basis. “There’s a spot available for her,” he continues. “It’s not cheap, but I know many patients who have completed the program and have remained sober.”

“How long is the program, and how much is it?” Ethan asks.

“It’s a six-week program. Some insurances may cover it, but out-of-pocket it can run up to $50,000, sometimes more.”

My heart sinks at the number. I know she doesn’t have that kind of money, and I definitely don’t.

“If she completes the program, she may avoid jail time,” the doctor continues.

“She’ll do it,” I say quickly.

“I can help you,” Ethan offers, but I shake my head.

“No,” I say. “I have some savings, and I can take out a loan to cover the rest.” I turn to the doctor. “Does my mom know?”

He nods. “She hasn’t agreed to it, but I don’t think she understands the situation.”

“I’ll make her see,” I say.

The doctor hands me a pamphlet from the facility, showing me the number to call and the person I need to speak with. “They’re expecting your call,” he says.

My mom has quieted down by the time we reach her room again. The officer is still standing guard outside her room when we come back. I look to Ethan, my hand tightening in his. He nods, letting me know he’s not going anywhere. He enters the room with me, and I cling to him for strength.

My mom’s eyes are closed when we walk in, but they snap open as soon as she hears our footsteps. Her gaze is hard, but it softens when she sees my face, then curious when she glances at Ethan. I’m worried about what she’ll say in front of him, but I’m not willing to be alone with her. I don’t know how I’m going to break the news to her.

“I talked with the doctor,” I start, and her face lifts into a sneer.

“That asshole doesn’t know what he’s talking about,” she says. “I’m not going to Mountain Vista or any other shithole treatment center. I don’t have a problem.” She lifts her hand to brush the wisps of hair from her face, and that’s when I see she’s handcuffed to the bed.

“Really, Mom?” I nod to her handcuffed arm. “And what’s your alternative.”

“That I go home and take care of myself, just like I have all my goddamn life.”

“You almost burned your goddamn house down,” I say, my voice raising as I release Ethan’s hand. I clench my fists into tight balls at my side, feeling the heat rise in me as I stare down my mom’s defiant face. “You’ve been high or drunk every day of my goddamn life. I can’t even let you around your grandson because you’re a fucking mess.”

“And you think you’re any better?” Her lips curl into a smile, her eyes narrowing on Ethan. “Did she tell you she’s a whore?” she asks.

“That’s enough!” I scream. I turn to Ethan, shaking my head. “I’m sorry. Can you wait outside?”

“Are you sure?” he asks. “She can’t say anything that will make me love you less.”

“She doesn’t even know who Finn’s father is,” my mom snarls.

“Please, just wait outside,” I say, suddenly aware of what a mistake this was. I can’t get him out of here fast enough. “I’ll be okay, I promise. I’ll just be a moment.”

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