PART 1

The first thing I noticed was the sling on my daughter’s arm. The second was the careful smile she wore while serving dinner to her husband’s family with only one usable hand.

“Mom, you’re early,” Claire said.

Her voice shook. As she turned, I saw a dark mark disappear beneath the collar of her blouse.

At the head of the table, Grant Mercer sliced roast beef like he owned not only the house, but every person sitting inside it. His mother, Evelyn, slowly swirled wine in her glass and watched Claire struggle with a heavy serving dish.

“Use your good arm,” Evelyn said. “Honestly, young women today make everything so dramatic.”

I set my handbag down.

“What happened?”

Claire looked at Grant.

That one look told me enough.

Evelyn gave a cold little laugh.

“My son had to teach her obedience.”

Grant leaned back in his chair, looking proud.

“She understands better now.”