Gladys was the last person standing by the front door.
She picked up her purse.
“This family has never been so divided.”
I opened the door.
“No. It’s finally stopped asking the women to keep the peace by staying quiet.”
She walked outside without another word.
The house felt strangely peaceful.
Eli stood beside me.
“I don’t expect you to forgive me today.”
I appreciated that he hadn’t asked me to. Instead, he rolled up his sleeves.
“What still needs to be done?”
I looked around.
“Nothing.”
He frowned.
“Really?”
“The family already did it.”
He let out a quiet breath.
“I don’t think I’ve ever noticed how much work these gatherings were.”
“I know.”
The next morning, Gladys called six times. I didn’t answer.
She texted Eli instead.
“Your wife owes me an apology.”
