feelings.

Eventually, I learned to anticipate her criticism before she even spoke.

I knew which subjects would lead to comparisons.

I knew which achievements she would minimize.

I knew when to change the subject, when to laugh, and when to leave a room before my eyes filled with tears.

For years, I believed this was what being a good daughter required.

Then I became a mother.

And everything changed.

Chapter Three: The Little Girl Who Changed My World

When I learned I was pregnant, I imagined the usual things.

I