The hallway leading upstairs looked different than I remembered.
The furniture was more expensive.
The decorations more elaborate.
Everything carried a hint of display rather than comfort.
As we climbed the stairs, the sound of music and laughter grew louder.
When we stepped into the living room, the conversation stopped almost immediately.
Several guests turned toward the staircase.
They clearly had not expected me to return tonight.
My mother, Diane Reed, was standing beside the dining table holding a glass of wine.
Her smile appeared automatically.
“Evan! My son! What a surprise.”
But the smile faded quickly when she noticed Meredith beside me.
Guests glanced at one another uneasily.
I walked to the center of the room.
“Who’s hosting this celebration?” I asked calmly.
My mother lifted her chin.
“We’re celebrating family.”
I nodded slowly.
“Then let’s act like one.”
I placed a reassuring hand on Meredith’s shoulder.
“Stay with me.”
She stood beside me, trembling slightly.
Then I addressed the room.
“I came home tonight planning to surprise my wife,” I said, “and instead I found her washing dishes in the back kitchen like a hired employee.”
Soft murmurs moved through the crowd.
My mother tried to laugh it off.
“Don’t exaggerate. Meredith just likes keeping busy.”
I stared at her.
“Likes?”
