“There. He always has an explanation.”
I looked at Mason’s overflowing plate.
“Was Mason disciplined for anything today?”
Ellie laughed.
“My son knows how to behave.”
Then she added,
“Mom has spent weeks helping you with Dustin. Maybe a little gratitude would be appropriate.”
That almost made me laugh.
Two weeks earlier, Alana had practically insisted that Dustin spend part of the summer at the country house.
Before leaving him there, I had stocked both refrigerators.
I left grocery money.
Bought games.
Filled the pantry with snacks.
Bought outdoor toys for both boys.
Yet now one child was enjoying everything I had provided while mine sat alone with half a potato.
I stood.
“You have two hours.”
Alana blinked.
“For what?”
“To pack.”
Ellie pushed back her chair.
“You’re throwing us out?”
“The train to Columbus leaves at 3:10. I suggest you catch it.”
Ellie stared at me.
