It’s as if Livia and Mom have launched an all-out smear campaign to embarrass us until our family is left without a shred of dignity. Elena smiles graciously as ever. “I think that can be arranged.” I look over to offer her an apologetic smile. Fortunately, she’s known Mom forever and can’t be too shocked at the behavior. Elena is an exceedingly patient woman, which is the only explanation I can find for her enduring tolerance of my mother. “Wonderful!” Mom cheers while Liv silently claps her hands together. I take a giant swig of my wine and pray that the worst is over. The remainder of dinner goes relatively smoothly. The food is delicious, and I’m able to tell Grace about my plans to stay, keeping to the massaged truth I told my dad. Even if I was going to tell her about Mom, which I’m
