Page 94 of Billion Dollar Dispute

I start typing, torn between wanting to handle this on my own and being grateful for Harvey's generosity. The conflict twists inside me. I want to accept it. I want to let him spoil us because, deep down, I know we deserve it. But then there's the voice in my head, reminding me that I’m supposed to be strong, capable.

I backspace, taking a deep breath, but it doesn't ease the pressure building inside me. I have to be honest.

Me:I don’t feel comfortable taking money from you to buy things for myself. But I’ll never deprive Chad of this opportunity, and for that, thank you, even though it makes me feel like a failure.

Harvey:Please don’t. You’re an amazing mother.

After a few more outfits, Chad’s finished. Patti takes me to the women's section, and I browse the racks but don’t pick up anything. The prices are too high. I find a sweat set that I love, but I don’t add it to the pile, then I say I’m done. My phone chimes and I open it.

Harvey:Patti says you’re not buying anything.

Me:Is she watching me?

I look up at her blank expression. My phone chimes, pulling my gaze down to read his message.

Harvey:Yes. I want you and Chad to have a whole new wardrobe. And Chad to have toys and games.

I tuck my phone away, then turn to Patti and tell her to add a few more things of her choosing for Chad. That should do it. An hour later, my phone buzzes with a new text message.

Harvey:What did you buy for yourself? Show me.

Me:Nothing.

Harvey:Naughty girl.

Me:Chad has a new wardrobe and Legos.

Harvey:I’ll order you a new wardrobe since you don’t want to listen. Patti will know what you like.

Me:You wouldn’t.

Harvey:I did.

I stare at his words. He’s just ordering me a wardrobe like this is normal behavior.

Me:You’re insane.

Harvey:I like you.

Me:Doesn't mean I need a new wardrobe.

Harvey:You don’t like flowers, or when I baked you a cake, or literally anything I do for you.

Me:Then why do you hang around like a bad smell? (Winking face emoji)

Harvey:Because I know you like me too. Who kissed me last night?

Me:I was delirious.

Harvey:Whatever you need to tell yourself. Now show me Chad’s toys.

I walk over to Chad, take a few photos, and hit send.

Harvey:I want to see it after he builds them. Does he like the Lambo?

Me:Why? Are you planning on upgrading your car?

Harvey:I’ll have you know mine is worth more than that one.

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