He Changed the Locks on My Parents’ Anniversary Gift

he said, “You knew.”

“About him?” I asked.

He nodded.

“I suspected.”

He looked out at the water, shoulders bent from years of work he never complained about enough.

“I should’ve done more.”

“No,” I said. “You should’ve been allowed to enjoy your house.”

He rubbed a thumb against the mug handle.

Then he gave this short, rough laugh. “Your mother says we need continue reading …