Brenda had left instructions for laundry and a week’s worth of supplies, then walked away.

The furniture downstairs had been sold or moved out, but the nursery still contained two cribs, a changing table, and a basket of mismatched socks.

“Mom, how long have you been here?” I asked.

“Since noon,” she said.

“Brenda said she needed fresh air.

I came over so she could take a break.” Her voice broke.