And I was the easiest way out.
Strangely, the anger softened into something closer to pity.
Though not enough to change my mind about my plan.
« You made your choices, » I said to the empty room. « Now I get to make mine. »
***
I did not sleep much.
Before the first gray light touched the window, I rose and dressed quietly.
I slipped down the hall.
Past the closed door where Melissa slept soundly, certain she had won.
I stepped out into the cool morning.
Dew soaked the hem of my slacks as I crossed the lawn to the end of the driveway.
I placed Melissa’s special surprise right there.
Then I walked back inside.
I sat at the kitchen table with my hands folded.
I waited for the sound of my son’s truck.
I thought of Lily’s wobbly letters.
Of the word GRANDMA she had spelled with such care.
