He Changed the Locks on My Parents’ Anniversary Gift

deadbolt in under five minutes, then the side entry, then the lock on the mudroom. Efficient. Almost insulting.

As he worked, Claire drifted down the porch steps toward me.

She still hadn’t looked at Mom.

“He told me they agreed,” she said.

I didn’t answer.

“He said Dad was overwhelmed by expenses. He said you bought something too big for them, and if we continue reading …