On Christmas

wouldn’t open the door.”

The room tilted.

“What?”

“She saw us. She looked through the window. I knocked and knocked. Emma was crying because she was cold. Grandpa opened the door a little, but Grandma said no. She said we couldn’t come in.”

My chest tightened until breathing hurt.

“She said what?”

Lily swallowed.

“She said, ‘Your mother made her choice.’ continue reading …