tailored navy suit, Vanessa beside him carrying my birthday gift, a designer handbag.
Both looked delighted until Derek noticed me at the head of the table. His grin disappeared.
“Dad?” Vanessa whispered.
I clasped my hands.
“Good morning.”
Derek found his composure first.
“So you made it home. You could’ve told us.”
“You told me to walk.”
Vanessa turned her face aside.
Beside the projector, Richard rose.
“Please sit down. We have several matters to address.”
Derek sat heavily.
“If this is about the cemetery, you’re seriously overreacting.”
Richard displayed
