My daughter-in-law pushed a stack of greasy plates into my hands and said, “Could you finish these? My mother prefers her wine chilled.”

“Patricia, since you’re already here…”

There are five dangerous words in any family arrangement: since you’re already here.

That Sunday, I arrived at three-thirty with homemade spinach casserole because Rachel had texted that morning saying she was “overwhelmed.”

I helped Mia find a missing doll shoe, set out napkins, stirred gravy, and washed mixing bowls before dinner even began.

Brenda arrived at five-thirty.

Rachel kissed her on both cheeks.

“Mom, sit down. You look exhausted.”

I stood three feet away holding a roasting pan.

Nobody asked if I was tired.