My daughter hadn’t replied for a week, so I went to her house—my son-in-law said she was away on a trip, but a faint sound from inside made me question everything

”

Vanessa appeared behind him, holding a wineglass. “God, she’s pathetic.”

Mark stepped onto the porch. “Emily signed everything. Do you understand? She’s done with you. Done with this family. Done pretending you matter.”

I let my face crumple just enough.

“She signed what?”

His smile returned. He thought grief had made me continue reading …