size as a reason for concern.

She never questioned my parenting.

She simply loved the little girl in front of her.

“Look at you,” Jenna whispered to Lily. “You are absolutely precious.”

Lily grabbed one of her fingers and smiled.

Jenna laughed.

“That’s right. You enjoy your first Christmas, sweetheart.”

I felt my shoulders relax.

Maybe I had worried unnecessarily.

Maybe my mother would behave herself.

Maybe this year really would be different.

Then I saw Carol standing near the dining room entrance.

She wore a perfectly pressed holiday blouse,