th a simple, pure anticipation for the family reunion. My daughter-in-law, Khloe, had been so insistent, her voice a melody of cheer as she’d planned the trip, talking about catching up with cousins I hadn’t seen in years.
Brenda, her mother, sat beside me, a faint, knowing smile playing on her lips.
She was quiet, but Brenda was often quiet. I chalked it up to her usual reserved nature. “Are we sure we’re taking the scenic route, Khloe?” I asked, adjusting the faded leather of my purse on my lap.
The miles were ticking by, yet I recognized nothing.
“Oh, absolutely, Eleanor,” Khloe chirped, her voice a little too bright. “Brenda found this amazing shortcut.
It’ll be an adventure.”
