replace Sarah.”
Claire nodded quietly.
“And nobody should.”
Mom reached across the table and covered Claire’s hand.
“But I’m so grateful someone as kind as you is taking care of Paxton and Ari.” She glanced toward me. “I think Sarah would finally be at peace knowing they aren’t alone anymore.”
The room settled into a warm silence.
Then a chair scraped sharply across the floor.
Ari stood.
Her little finger rose.
She pointed directly at Claire.
“She’s a MONSTER.”
Every sound disappeared.
My sister lowered her fork.
Dad stared at
