That ended the argument. Margaret watched her grandson closely. Daniel had always been the family peacemaker — softening insults, changing subjects, accepting empty apologies to avoid conflict. She loved his gentleness, but she’d begun to fear it had become a leash.

Daniel set Mia down but kept an arm around her. “We’re leaving.”

“You can’t leave in the middle of Parker’s party,” Vanessa said, alarmed.

Daniel gave one humorless laugh. “Watch us.”

Margaret stood. “I’m leaving with them.”

That was when the family’s panic became visible. Richard stepped forward. “Mother, let’s not be impulsive.”