PART 3 The courthouse smelled like wet coats, old paper, and coffee that had been burned for too many hours.

have to fix adult sadness.”

At nine, Lily asked why Grandma Vivian didn’t come to birthdays.

Savannah said, “Some people love control more than connection. That is their loss.”

Lily thought about that, then went back to frosting cupcakes.

Savannah did not poison them against Bryce.

She also did not lie to protect him.

That balance was hard.

It was also freedom.continue reading …