Cancer and Betrayal: A Mother Abandoned by Her Son

The next morning, relatives came to our house.

My uncle, aunt, and to my surprise, my aunt-in-law also came.

She had never liked our family much, always frowning at gatherings.

My uncle broke the silence. "Where's Steven? Why isn't he here?"

I choked up and shook my head. "I don't know. I haven't seen him for days."

Steven indeed hadn't visited for several days, having kept vigil for two nights and then excusing himself on a business trip, unreachable by phone.

My uncle cursed, "That damn boy, his mother is sick, and he's still out messing around."

I just gave a bitter smile.

We drove together to the hospital.

Leading them to the hospital room, I started, "Uncle, aunt, my mom is inside..."

Before I could finish, I heard voices inside.

I immediately recognized Steven and his girlfriend, Emma Smith was talking.

"Mom, see, your illness hasn't improved yet. I think it lacks some joy. Emma and I are thinking of getting married to bring you some happiness!"

My mom couldn't stop smiling, "That would be wonderful! Go ahead! If Mom gets happy, maybe the illness will go away!"

"But... Emma's parents said they need at least a house in my name to agree to our marriage," Steven sounded troubled.

"Mom, how about you transfer the house to me first? After Emma and I get married to bring you joy, I'll transfer it back."

Emma said, "Auntie, I was also sad to hear about your illness, so Steven and I thought of this plan. My parents said they don't need a dowry, but Steven must have a house in his name to agree to our marriage."

My mom decisively said, "That's only right. What's this about transferring it back? The house was meant for Steven's marriage."

My brother hesitated, "But you still need money for treatment..."

"That can't include selling the house! There's your sister, and then there's your uncle and aunt. They won't stand by and do nothing!"

"..."

Even though I knew of my mother's favoritism, hearing it firsthand still hurt.

My uncle and aunt exchanged looks.

I took the opportunity to cry out, "Uncle, aunt, I'm not afraid of your scolding, but I've already listed our house with a broker. My mom's illness is like a bottomless pit. Without selling the house, we'd only be left borrowing money..."

My uncle patted my shoulder, "Gloria, you did right. Your mom is confused, but you can't follow her lead! This Steven is too thoughtless. Uncle is the eldest male relative, and your dad's gone. I'll take charge of this!"

With that, they pushed open the hospital room door and walked straight in.