Chapter 3855

Erika quickly replied, “No, I need to get back and help the kids with their homework. They have so much to do during winter break. If I don’t supervise them, they’ll just play games on their phones.”
Kathryn nodded in agreement. “You’re right, sister-in-law. Make sure to stay on top of it. Don’t let them get lost in gaming and watching videos. If you can, it’s best to supervise them yourself. Kids can’t be expected to have that kind of self-control. Even we adults struggle to put down our phones.”
Adults set the example for children’s habits with electronics. Parents often find themselves preoccupied with their phones, avoiding interaction with their kids. When children become restless, parents often hand them devices to keep them quiet while they continue using their own in peace.
This behavior can lead to children becoming glued to screens. When their school performance declines, parents suddenly impose strict rules and take away the devices, resulting in chaos.
Some kids even resort to extreme behavior, threatening self-harm if they aren’t given their phones. Tragically, some have followed through on those threats.
Every child starts as a blank slate, and what gets drawn on that slate depends on their parents, doesn’t it?
People often say that parents are a child’s first teachers, and their actions and words significantly shape their kids’ lives.
Erika sighed. “I wasn’t strict enough with them before, and now it’s hard to turn things around. When I ease up, they’re sweet and loving, but if I push them on their studies, it’s a constant battle. Helping them with homework sometimes feels like it’s going to give me a heart attack.”
Kathryn wasn’t sure how to respond.
Erika continued, “You and Mr. Fraser should head home.”

“I won’t keep you long,” Erika continued. “You and Mr. Fraser should head home now. But if you decide to leave, please let me know in advance so we can share one last meal together. We may not be sisters-in-law anymore, but we can still be friends. You’ll always be my kids’ aunt.”

Erika knew that Kathryn planned to leave Jensburg. They parted ways in the hospital parking lot. Kathryn stood by her car, watching until Erika disappeared from view before getting in.

Meanwhile, Marco was at a café near the hospital, nervously sipping his second cup of coffee. He had no idea how Erika’s conversation with Kathryn had gone or whether Kathryn had been receptive. He tried to manage his expectations, reminding himself not to get his hopes up. However, hope was difficult to suppress, leaving him feeling anxious.

When Erika walked in, Marco stood up and waved her over. She sat across from him. “Want some coffee? I’ll get you a cup,” Marco offered, trying to sound cheerful.

“No, I’m fine,” Erika replied. “I’m just here to tell you how it went. Kathryn’s mind is made up, and nothing will change it—not even a herd of wild horses. Don’t push it any further; it’s pointless. Don’t even consider lawsuits—they won’t make a difference. The will was left by your mother, and Kathryn didn’t alter a thing. It’s legitimate. Accept it for what it is.

From your mom’s estate, you’re entitled to about 2%. That’s more than enough to live comfortably for the rest of your life. Leave the kids’ shares to me. I’ll manage them until they’re old enough to handle things on their own.”

Marco was bound to remarry. He had been dating other women even before their divorce. Now, as a single man without kids at home, it was

It’s only a matter of time before he is firmly established in his decision, and nothing will change that—not even a stampede of wild horses. Don’t push the issue any further; it’s futile. Avoid even considering lawsuits; they won’t make a difference. The will was created by your mother, and Kathryn did not make any changes. It is valid. Accept it as it is.

From your mother’s estate, you are entitled to approximately 2%. That amount is more than sufficient for a comfortable life. Leave the children’s shares to me. I will manage them until they are old enough to take care of things themselves.

Marco is bound to remarry. He had been seeing other women even before their divorce. Now, as a single man without kids at home, it’s only a matter of time before he begins dating again, making remarriage very likely.

Erika was concerned that if the children’s shares ended up in Marco’s hands, he would spend the money. It’s better to secure their future now while Marco is still cooperative.