I hadn’t been here in a while.

The driveway still curved in that smooth, perfect half-circle, lined with trimmed bright colorful flowers that always looked surreal. Our mansion stood tall, the same white walls, same dark windows, same air.

As the driver pulled up and stopped, I took a breath.

The door opened before I reached it.

“You don’t visit often,” Mom said, arms crossed, soft smile trying to cover the complaint.

“I’ve been busy,” I replied, stepping in and kissing her ...