101

LINDEN

Something was different with Gustav today. He was calmer, and I couldn’t see a hint of anger, arrogance, and disgust in his eyes. He seemed to have learned his lessons or had accepted that he wouldn’t win in tearing Estelle and me apart.

When the door chimed, I knew it would be Moses, but what surprised me was the person with him.

“Why is Mom with Moses?” Estelle widened her eyes like me. Good question.

“Gabe. Honey.” He kissed my wife on the cheek before he shook hands with my father-in-law. “Gustav, how are you doing?”

“I’m good. How are you?”

“I’m doing good. Thank you.”

“Deirdre, good to see you again.” Gustav kissed his ex-wife on the cheek.

“You look good, Gustav.” Deirdre smiled. From what Estelle told me, they couldn’t stand one another, but today seemed different. I didn’t see bad blood.

“You look beautiful as always.”

“Thank you. I eat organics, sleep early, and do yoga.”

“Mom.” Estelle hugged her mother.

“Honey, I love your shoes.” She looked down at my w