“You’re not invited to Christmas this year,” my dad sn3pped. “Fine,” I replied, quietly transferring the $8,000 holiday fund I sent him back into my account and canceling the chalet reservation in his name. By morning, I had 31 missed calls — and one message that made me laugh out loud. – Welcome

I.

Vanessa laughed awkwardly.

“Sorry. Habit.”

Then she muttered:

“Although she does smell like that sewing room half the time.”

Sophie’s face collapsed.

Mom whispered:

“Vanessa!”

Too late.

I opened the door wider.

“Get off my porch.”

Vanessa stared.

“You’re serious?”

“Yes.”

Dad stepped forward.

“Claire—”

“All of you. Leave.”

I closed the door.

Later, I found Sophie continue reading …