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. …

your pride talking?”

“No,” I said. “Because if I thought that were true, I wouldn’t have called.”

Another beat.

“And if there is something there?” she asked. “You understand what that means.”

I looked out the study window. Morning had turned the lake pewter. Snow sat in the branches like flour.

“That’s why I’m calling you and not someone I need to impress.continue reading …