There was a faint mud line where the hose had rested.

I walked through the rooms and noticed how much had changed during our marriage.

Claire’s photos had been moved into a box in the attic.

Hailey’s drawings had vanished from the refrigerator.

The hallway that once displayed her bright, crooked artwork held framed prints chosen by Brenda.

I found the box of photographs and carried it downstairs.

In a drawer beside the laundry room I discovered several handwritten lists in Brenda’s orderly script.

They set out meal rules, chores, and consequences for Hailey.