The Final Appraisal at the Lake House Before the Family Reckoning

of Eddie.

Of the family name I had once been proud to leave behind.

Saturday dinner was meatloaf.

Elaine’s recipe.

Ruth made it every year near Elaine’s birthday.

My children did not remember.

I did.

Ruth placed the dish in the center of the dining table.

Claire’s eyes softened.

“Mom used to make this.”

“Yes,” Ruth said.

Diane looked surprised.

“You knew Mom’s continue reading …