The Final Appraisal at the Lake House Before the Family Reckoning

served at six.

Ruth made pot roast, carrots, potatoes, rolls, and apple pie.

A Sunday dinner from a world my children claimed to miss but never helped preserve.

The dining room glowed with candlelight.

Elaine’s portrait watched from above the sideboard.

My children sat like defendants pretending to be guests.

Mr. Ellis sat to my right.

Ruth sat to my left.continue reading …