The snow on the porch steps was piled high and was undisturbed by anyone stepping on it. No footprints marred the smooth surface of the snow in the yard.
“If Dad didn’t go outside this morning, where is he?” Lizzie asked, with fear in her voice.
Her mother shook her head. Lizzie could see her mother’s eyes were bright with unshed tears.
“I don’t know,” she said, her voice cracking.
Lizzie stared at her for a moment, then reached out and wrapped her arm around her mother’s shoulders, saying, “Come back inside, Mom. We’re not going to anyone any good by standing out her and freezing our butts off.”
She led her mother back inside, shutting the door behind them. Leading her to the couch, she gently pushed her down into it, sitting down next to her.
Her mother slouched down on
