Because He Takes After You
Marinas voice trembled with barely contained frustration. Three years, Eleanor Victoria. Three years youve been demanding a grandson from me, scolding me for taking too long. And now, in front of everyone, you only dote on little Paul, your daughters son. But my Alex is your grandson too! Or have you forgotten?
Eleanor Victoria adjusted her perfectly styled hair and regarded her daughter-in-law with icy superiority. Behind her in the living room, the sounds of childrens laughter and music carried onPauls birthday party was still in full swing.
And when you ignore Alex, when you dont give him gifts like you do the other grandson, Marina continued, he gets upset. Hes ten years old, Eleanor Victoria. Hes old enough to understandyou dont love him.
Her mother-in-law snorted dismissively, waving a hand as if shooing away a bothersome fly.
Youre imagining things, Marina. I treat both my grandsons the same. And honestly, why are you picking a fight now? Eleanors eyebrows rose in indignation. Its my grandsons birthday, the guests are here. I dont have time for your ridiculous fantasies.
With that, she turned on her heel and strode back into the party, leaving Marina standing alone in the hallway. A lump of hurt and anger rose in Marinas throat. She leaned against the wall, struggling to steady herself. To his grandmother, her son might as well be invisiblejust a pane of glass to look through at the people who really mattered.
Taking a deep breath, Marina returned to the party. The sight that greeted her made her chest tighten further. Eleanor was fussing over Paul, cooing at his every word, ruffling his hair, slipping him sweets. Meanwhile, Alex stood in the corner, pressed against the wall, watching with poorly concealed envy. His small shoulders slumped, his eyes dull with longingso much that Marina nearly ran to him, to hold him and take him far away from here.
That evening, after Alex had gone to bed, Marina sat on the sofa beside her husband.
Victor, we need to talk about your mother, she began. The way she treats Alexits wrong. He understands everything, and hes hurting.
Victor rubbed his foreheada gesture Marina knew well. He always did it when avoiding an uncomfortable topic.
Youre overthinking it, love, he dismissed. I was the less-favoured child toomy sister always came first. Its fine, Alex will learn not to expect anything from her. Hell manage. Hes a tough lad. Besides, she does love him, just… differently. Not like she loves Paul.
Marina stared at him in disbelief. How could he not hear how callous that sounded? How could he accept that their son should just *get used to* being pushed aside?
A week later, Eleanor showed up unannounced. Alex was doing homework at the kitchen table when the doorbell rang. His face brightened at firstthen dimmed, his guarded expression returning as he watched her warily.
Alex, darling, Ive brought you a treat! Eleanor announced, holding out a handful of cheap sweetsthe kind sold in bulk.
Marina noted bitterly that for Paul, she always bought expensive chocolates.
Thanks, Gran, Alex murmured, taking them.
Eleanor turned to Marina with a triumphant look.
See? I dont favour anyone. All this nonsense about me playing favourites.
Alex shifted awkwardly before quietly excusing himself to finish his homework. Marina knew hed already realised his grandmother wouldnt spare him another glance.
Once they were alone, Marina tried once moremaybe if she shared Alexs achievements, Eleanor would show interest.
Alex won first place in his schools maths competition, she said, pouring tea. His teacher says hes exceptionally gifted.
Yes, very good, Eleanor murmured, then instantly brightened. Paul won his swimming tournament last week! First place in the whole district. His coach says he could go pro!
Thats wonderful, Marina said tightly. But I was talking about Alex. Hes also started drawinghis teacher says
Drawing? Eleanor cut in. Thats hardly a proper skill. Now, sportthats something! Pauls so strong, so capable. And his English marks are the best in his class. His teacher says hes extraordinary.
Marina clenched her jaw. Eleanor continued praising Paul, ignoring any mention of Alex.
and just the other day, Paul fixed his own bicycle! At eight years old! Such clever handsjust like his grandfather.
Marinas patience snapped. She slammed her palm on the table, making the cups rattle.
Why, Eleanor? Her voice was sharp. Why do you do this? You *wanted* a grandson from Victoryou pushed us for it!
Eleanors face twisted, as if shed bitten into something sour. She hesitated, then spoke reluctantly.
I wanted *my* grandson. A proper one. But Alex She wrinkled her nose. Hes just like you. Spitting image. Everything about him is *you*.
Marina froze. The absurdity of it left her speechless.
You… dont love him because he looks like *me*?
Eleanor nodded, as if explaining something obvious.
I never approved of Victors choice. But I thoughtfine, at least youd give me a proper grandson. Youre healthy enough. But he She waved a hand. Your double. Your mannerisms, your face. Even the way he turns his headits eerie.
Marina sat stunned. This couldnt be real.
Maybe if you had another? Eleanor mused, oblivious. One that takes after *our* side? Hmm?
Marina shot to her feet, her chair clattering back. Rage darkened her vision.
Another? she whispered, then louder: Get out. *Now.*
Excuse me? Eleanor sputtered. This is *my sons* house!
Its *our* home, Marina hissed. And I wont let you hurt my son anymore. *Leave.*
She yanked the door open and pointed. Fuming, Eleanor snatched her bag and stormed out.
Youll regret this! she spat before the door slammed shut.
Marina leaned against the wall, hands over her face, her whole body trembling.
That evening, when Victor returned, she told him everything. His expression darkened with every word.
She *actually* said that? That she doesnt love Alex because he looks like you? And we should have *another*?
Marina nodded, tears spilling at last.
How can she do this to him? she choked. Its not his fault!
Victor pulled her close.
Enough, he said firmly. Were done with her. Alex comes first.
Months passed. Life settled. Then Marinas parents moved nearby, selling their countryside home for a flat just streets away.
We missed you and our grandson, her mother, Valerie, explained. And you could use the help.
Alex blossomed under their love. Their only grandson, finally close enough to spoil. His confidence grew, his smile returned. He was happy.
On Alexs birthday, Marina hesitatedbut invited Eleanor. Just in case time had softened her.
Eleanor arrived with a small box. Inside was a flimsy plastic carthe kind sold in bargain bins.
Thanks, Gran, Alex said politely, then turned eagerly. Grandma Val, Grandad Steve, can I open yours now?
Her parents exchanged a glance and handed him a large box. Alex tore it opena professional drawing tablet.
Oh my gosh! Thank you! He threw his arms around them. This is the exact one I wanted!
Eleanor pursed her lips.
Why such an extravagant gift? Youll spoil him.
Valerie met her gaze evenly.
Alex wants to be a graphic designer. Hes talented. This will help him.
Beaming, Alex hugged them again.
Dad, come help me set it up! He grabbed Victors hand, and they disappeared into his room, laughter trailing behind.
Marina and Eleanor were left alone. The older woman looked stunned.
Whats wrong, Eleanor? Marina asked coolly. Dont like seeing my son happy?
Eleanor bristled.
Well, Paul just
If youre about to talk about *him*, Marina cut in, you can leave. This is *Alexs* day. I wont let you ruin it.
But Pauls *better*! Eleanor burst out. Hes stronger, smarter
Marina marched to the door and flung it open.
I warned you. *Go.*
You cant do this!
I can. This is *my* home. *My* sons birthday. She all but shoved Eleanor out. Goodbye.
The door clicked shut. Marina exhaled, steadying herself. No more worrying about keeping peace with Victors family. Her son mattered more.
From Alexs room came laughter and excited chatter. Smiling, she went to join them.
