Mrs. Sanderson, one of Gina’s friends, leaned in. “I saw Audrey’s project at the science fair. And Stella, the staff speak very highly of you. The school is proud to have you both.”
Daniel’s aunt shook her head at Gina, voice low but clear. “You ought to be ashamed. That child has more grace than all of us put together.”
“Everything you see here, these meals, this house… it’s all nice,” Audrey continued. “But I’d trade it all for one more day with Dad. He was proud of Mom, always. No matter what job she did.”
Nobody moved. The silence was heavy, but not cruel, just changed.
“That child has more grace than all of us put together.”
Aunt Margaret looked at Gina. “You should have treated them better.”
Gina opened her mouth, then closed it again. Her face went red. A second later, she pushed back her chair and walked out. Duncan followed without a word.
Mrs. Sanderson squeezed my hand. “Your daughter’s remarkable, Stella. So are you.”
“Thank you, that means everything to me.”
Audrey leaned in, whispering. “Can we go now, Mom? I’m tired.”
“Of course, sweetheart.”
