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

wasn’t cruel.

My absence had been obvious.

She had simply accepted the version that required the least effort.

“If everyone thought I was somewhere else, why didn’t anybody even send me Merry Christmas?”

She closed her eyes.

“I should have.”

“That isn’t the question.”

“I know.”

Eventually, she said, “I think we all assumed you’d be fine.”

Of course.

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