Judy looked from the red county seal on the tax deed to the bluebird card lying under the dining room light.

She didn’t say a word.

She sat frozen in her chair, her eyes fixed on the framed bluebird card.

Then Judy turned and pushed past the dining chairs toward the front screen door.

Her handbag was clutched tight against her cardigan, her thumb pressing hard on the silver snap.

Nate stepped out after her into the cool evening air.

I followed them onto the porch, leaving Ron standing by the dining table with his heavy palm resting on the back of Judy’s empty chair.

Judy sat down on the top porch step, her knees pressed together.