Chapter 40
MAGGIE
My parents were glad to have me back. My mom and I watched Christmas movies and delivered hampers to those in need. I went to church and listened to Dad’s sermon on the birth of Jesus.
I cried at church, I cried when a single mom broke down over the diapers we’d given her, and I cried watching The Grinch. Bronwyn would’ve laughed at my blubbering. I cried when I thought that, too.
The day after Christmas, I was reading a book my dad gave me, a novelization of the life of Ruth, when Mom came into my room.
“We’re so happy to have you home.” She climbed into bed beside me, smoothing the comforter over her legs. I put the book down.
“It’s been quiet around here without you.” Mom put a bookmark in my book and closed it. She never did like it when the spines got cracked w
