Ruby’s relationship with her mother had always been complicated. Elizabeth, a woman of strong opinions and an even stronger will, had made it clear that she believed in tough love. She often reminded Ruby and her brother, Ian, that they were not entitled to anything simply because they were her children. This philosophy extended to all aspects of Ruby’s life, including when she became a mother to Mason, her energetic four-year-old son
“Parents don’t owe their children anything,” says thirty-four-year-old Ruby, echoing a sentiment many have heard. Having worked hard to secure her own home through a mortgage, Ruby thought she had her life somewhat figured out. But when her mother, Elizabeth, starts making demands that Ruby takes over the care of her husband, Ruby’s stepfather, the already strained family dynamics take a turn for the worse.