We can sell the back parcel together and keep the rest in the family name.”

My father adjusted his gold watch band with a sharp flick of his wrist.

He didn’t look at my face, staring instead at the framed print of the Elizabeth River on the wall.

“We just want what’s best for the family’s future, Evelyn, before it’s too late,” my mother said.

I stood by the corner of the couch and rested my hand on my right knee.

The joint throbbed from the cold, damp air coming in through the front door.