They Made Me Sleep in the Garage for Christmas Until the Truth Came Out

always wanted what’s best for you,” she said finally.

“What’s best for me,” I replied, “or what reflects well on you?”

Her cheeks went mottled. “How dare you—”

“How dare I build something from scratch without asking for a single dollar? How dare I show up here every Christmas and let you treat me like a consolation prize because it seemed to make everyone continue reading …