Lunch was a swirl of silverware, clinking glasses, and forced small talk. The roast glistened in the middle of the table, but my stomach twisted tight. One of Daniel’s cousins launched into a play-by-play of her latest promotion, voice loud and bright.
Aunt Margaret cut in, waving her fork. “You must come on a cruise with us next spring, Stella. It’s all-inclusive, of course. There’ll be endless buffets. Audrey, have you ever been on a ship?”
My daughter’s eyes darted to mine. “No, ma’am. But maybe one day.”
Gina’s gaze landed on Audrey’s plate. “Still struggling in math, darling?” she asked.
“No, ma’am. But maybe one day.”
Audrey set down her fork, her voice steady. “Not really. I got some help.”
“From who? A tutor?” Gina’s lips twitched.
“From Mom,” Audrey announced politely.
