She is selfish, unloving, critical, abusive, and refuses to talk about her feelings. Although David has always been aware of this, it only really comes to fruition when his therapist tells him that his mother doesn't love him. (255) However, it must be taken into account that the story is told from David's childhood memories. He is expected to exaggerate the details of certain events, particularly how violent his mother might have been, to create some sort of antagonist in his memoir. Small may have been too young to be able to piece together the causes of Betty's mental illness. Although there are many instances where the reader is entitled to question Betty's love for David, it is impossible to know whether she actually loved him or not. Although the therapist clearly states no, his motives are questionable. This therapist is paid to talk to David about his feelings. It benefits him that David feels inadequate in the face of his mother's love. This could be an attempt to psychologically torment David to the point that he falls to his knees, needing the therapist's comfort. (255) Betty, however, only shows remorse for her actions when she feels like her son is going to die. She reluctantly grants him one last wish, no longer caring about a practically dead boy living up to her expectations. (172) While this may have been seen as an act of kindness, it could more likely be seen as an act of self-preservation. She granted her son one last wish so he wouldn't have to live with the guilt of knowing she never caused him pleasure. But just when it looks like David might live, she steals the book he asked for because she doesn't approve of him...