During my daughter’s baby shower, I walked in to find her on her hands and knees scrubbing spilled wine off the rug.

for the first time in what felt like years.

Outside, snow softened the city streets.

Emily poured tea. No ballroom. No diamonds. No cruel voices.

Only peace.

My granddaughter wrapped her tiny fist around my finger.

Emily looked at me quietly. “Do you ever feel guilty?”

I kissed Lily’s forehead gently.

“No,” I said. “I feel early.”