Matthew winced visibly. His mother's words hurt, especially since they weren't entirely untrue. He knew that there was little chance that he ever deserved the love of someone as beautiful and strong as his mother. He knew that she had every reason to hate him. After all, he wasn't perfect. But he still couldn't bring himself to regret choosing her. He still chose his family. He still chose to love her no matter what. He was always going to choose her, and he knew for a fact that his grandfather understood that, despite his hatred for him.
"You should know better," Mrs. Hirsch continued harshly. "This girl has done nothing but cause problems since day one! Ever since your first marriage fell apart she's been causing you pain, you fool."
"Mom," Mattie whispered tiredly.
"Shut up, Mattie!"
