Eventually, expectation replaced gratitude. Eleanor stopped asking whether Thanksgiving could be at our house; she simply announced the number of guests.

Daniel began inviting business associates without telling me. His sister started requesting specific dishes — one year, a separate stuffing because her husband had suddenly decided to avoid gluten.

I worked full-time. I still handled everything.

Every holiday began with compliments. Claire is amazing. Claire never forgets anything. Daniel is so lucky. The praise sounded generous until I understood it was just permission to demand more.

Chapter 3 — Seventy-Five Thousand Dollars

The Thanksgiving that ended my marriage actually began three weeks earlier, with a message from Eleanor.

We’ll have nine this year. Possibly eleven. Robert may bring the boys. Daniel said you won’t mind.