I nodded. I didn’t need more than that. The truth had done the work.
Sandra hasn’t called. Not a message. Not even a cold little quote sent through the grapevine. Just silence.
But Uncle Robert did call. His voice shook a little when he said my name. “Can we talk?” he asked. He didn’t say what about. He didn’t have to.
I knew what it meant. And wasn’t afraid of it.
I’m not shrinking anymore. Not dodging jabs or biting my tongue. I gave this family years of grace they didn’t deserve. I won’t do it again. Ava’s second birthday will be filled with love and honesty. No decorations needed, no speeches, and no “gifts.”
