The Final Appraisal at the Lake House Before the Family Reckoning

dinner.

Ruth had served roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, and peach cobbler.

Diane complained the chicken was dry.

Mark said nothing but took three helpings.

Claire waited until Ruth cleared the plates, then followed me into my study.

“Daddy?”

She only called me Daddy when she wanted the past to do the asking for her.

I was sitting at Elaine’s continue reading …