“But, Daddy, she kidnapped you!”
Daddy threw back his head and laughed. “Kidnapped! That’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard! I’m here because I want to be here.” He sat down on the edge of the bed and motioned for me to sit in the chair. “And LouElla really knows her stuff. She nursed me through withdrawal, gave me something to help with the headaches — God, did I have headaches! — and sat with me until the worst of them were over.” He laid both hands open across his stomach. “And this facility has a wonderful cook!” He grinned. “Who needs the Betty Ford Clinic if you have Phoenix House?” He stared at a spot on the wall and looked wistful. “Reminded me a lot of your mother’s cooking.”
I started to say something in defense of Ruth, who had been chief-cook-and-bottle-washer in my
