The Final Appraisal at the Lake House Before the Family Reckoning

folded into his jacket pocket.

Claire left wearing no pearls but holding a recipe card Ruth had copied for Elaine’s meatloaf.

At the front door, Diane turned to me.

“Can I visit?”

I looked at Ruth.

Ruth answered.

“Call first.”

Diane nodded.

“I will.”

Mark extended his hand to me.

I pulled him into a hug instead.

He stiffened, then folded.

For a few seconds, I continue reading …