My Father Froze in the Doorway, Still Wearing the Old Gray Sweatshirt That Made Him Look Practical and Hardworking

when I stopped being angry, which I had not expected. Anger is loud and hot and it takes a great deal of energy, and I did not have energy. What replaced it was something quieter and much worse for them: I simply stopped needing anything from her.

“Marisol,” I said. “I’d like everyone to leave now.”

My father took a step toward the bed. “Miranda, we continue reading …