Thanks, Blueowl. So often we (including me) react emotionally to a situation and make things far worse. And no, she made no effort to envision the secondary consequences.
Cuidadora, you've described Lois' problem very well. She's still too angry to admit she made a serious mistake and her pride won't let her admit it - yet. The "Jimmy problem" will show up again soon. And thank you for the Wizard of Oz reference! You're also right about the solid structures of the Kent and Harris families. I wanted to show a strong, accomplished, professional woman who isn't fighting negative parental influences in her early adulting stage.
Chapter 10 will be up very soon. There are a couple of added complications coming.
