Two months later, I moved into the cottage by the lake.
Margaret wrote first. Then my SIL. I sent back one short note.
“I hold no grudge. I wish you peace. Please don’t write again.”
“Garrett didn’t want to fight them publicly.”
***
Joyce drove out most Sundays with coffee and stories. I planted tomatoes, lavender, and a small white rose bush by the porch.
I wore the diamond ring every single day.
