The Final Appraisal at the Lake House Before the Family Reckoning

Mark found me on the screened porch.

He had changed into a quarter-zip sweater and boat shoes, though it was not boating weather.

He held a glass of lemonade Ruth had made.

“Dad,” he said, “I’m going to be direct.”

“You always are when subtlety would be kinder.”

He smiled like I had complimented him.

“I know Diane got to you first.”

“She spoke with me, yes.continue reading …