I called Mom while I was shopping and asked, “Should I bring chocolate cake or apple pie for Christmas?” – Welcome

it to me.

The Christmas Eve date had circulated throughout the family since the weekend before.

Mom told everyone I already had plans.

Nobody questioned it enough to call me.

Afterward, I kept thinking about Dad’s favorite word for me.

Tension.

Apparently, I created tension whenever I made someone uncomfortable.

At Mom’s birthday the year before, everyone continue reading …