I slid the framed blueprint between two soft cardigans in the middle of the suitcase so the glass was protected on both sides.

I looked down at the dresser.

The silver bracelet I had brought from Seattle sat in its small navy velvet box beside the lamp, completely untouched.

Downstairs in the dark living room, the green box holding the seven-hundred-dollar camera lens I had bought for Chelsea still lay forgotten under the discarded red bow beneath the Christmas tree.

I left both things where they were.

I zipped the suitcase shut, pulled the leather strap tight, and set my work briefcase on the floor by the door.