The Final Appraisal at the Lake House Before the Family Reckoning

want honesty.”

Diane’s smile flickered.

“Yes. That too.”

Mark leaned back.

“I’ll keep mine simple. Dad, I love you. We all do. Let’s just make sure emotion doesn’t override good judgment.”

Claire’s voice trembled.

“I don’t want us to fight.”

No one responded.

Because that was not true.

They all wanted to fight.

They just wanted to win first.

Mr. Ellis opened continue reading …