I picked up a card and read it twice.

I wanted to remember my mother’s good moments.

I also wanted to protect Jenna from one more attempt to force reconciliation.

I put the card back.

That night I told Jenna what had happened.

“You can feel sad at Christmas,” she said.

“I thought you’d be angry that I even considered it.”

“Considering a card isn’t the same as bringing Diane into our home.