The sound of wind rattled through the recording before Eleanor spoke again, her gentle tone giving way to a flat statement.

“The utility clerk told your father you closed the account and cleared the billing card,” Eleanor said.

“Family doesn’t treat family like this, Iris.

Call your father back right now and get the service turned back on before the pipes under the floor freeze.”

The recording clicked off, leaving only the quiet hum of the oil radiator in the room.

“She didn’t ask if you made it through the nine-hour drive south in the rain,” Monica said from across the table.