My parents texted me, “The Christmas party has been canceled. Don’t come, my love.” They had no idea I was standing right outside the door, watching them and my sister raise a glass and say, “Merry Christmas—it’s so much better without So

here?” Chloe blurted, as if my existence was a disruption.

Marlene stepped aside and nodded at me. “Hi, sweetheart,” she said gently. “I’m sorry it had to be like this.”

My mother found her voice—sharp, panicked. “Sophia, we told you not to come! Why would you—”

“Because you lied,” I said calmly.

My voice didn’t shake. That surprised me most.

I looked at continue reading …