The Fortress at the Graveside

People approached me with stiff condolences, awkward pats on the arm, murmured admiration for my “service.” Their eyes slid past me quickly, uncomfortable with someone who didn’t crumble on command.

Vanessa noticed.

She always did.

“Demi,” she called out sharply, snapping her fingers like I was staff. “We’re out of ice. Go grab another bag from the freezer.continue reading …