CNU-My daughter-in-law said Christmas would be easier if I stayed away, and my son did not even raise his eyes to defend me. So I stayed home, alone, exactly as requested. …

she said warmly, almost convincingly. “This house always photographs beautifully in winter.”

There it was again. Not the house itself. Its value as an image.

Dinner began well enough. The children talked over each other about school. Susan had made honor roll. Raymond was determined to explain the offside rule in youth soccer to anyone within range. continue reading …