“Oh, speaking of which, would you mind terribly getting the birdseed out of the trunk of my car? There are two metal trashcans next to the door that leads out back. Just put the bags in there.”

“Sure. No problem. There’s one feeder that is almost empty. Would you like me to fill it?”

“Thank you, Nicole. Yes, that one gets emptied every day. It’s sunflower seeds. Put a scoop or two in there, if you don’t mind.”

Instead of going out the back door, Nic pointed toward the living room. “Gonna get my coat.”

Abby smiled at her. “Excuse to get out in the snow?”

“Yeah. It looks inviting.”

Her mother turned to her when Nic walked out. “She’s so nice. I trust you had a good day in town.”

“We did. Ended up at the brewery for burgers. It was fun.” She opened one of the bags and peered inside. “You want this in the pantry or is it for tonight?”

“In the pantry, please. I think I’ve accounted for all the meals next week. I haven’t planned anything for lunches, though. I figured you would be skiing and could get something in town. If not, there’s makings for sandwiches.”

“What do you have planned for tomorrow night?” She paused on her way to the pantry, smiling as Nic walked back through in her parka and new knit cap. “Is it something I can help with?”

“Christmas Eve? Yes, there are plenty of things you can help with. I’m going to do a Mexican buffet for tacos. I’ve got all sorts of things—beef, chicken, beans. I’ll make a fresh batch of pico de gallo and guacamole. I’ve got some sprouts and shredded cabbage. Oh, and I’m making a chipotle sour cream sauce. Your father loves that.”

Abby stuck her head out of the pantry. “Speaking of Dad—I know you said everything was okay, but…”

Her mother let out a heavy breath and leaned her head down, staring at the floor. Abby went over to her.

“Mom?”

“Oh, Abigail.” Her mother looked at her and Abby was shocked to see tears in her eyes. “I think your father is having an affair.”

“What? Mom, no.”

“He’s…he’s being so secretive. He gets phone calls that he claims are from the resort. He leaves at odd times—when he’s here, that is. Which, as you can tell, is rare.” Her mother sat down heavily in a chair. “I did something that I’m not proud of, Abigail.”

Abby sat down too. “What’s that?”

“I…I followed him one day. He was on his way to work, and I followed him. But he didn’t go to the resort. He went into town. He met some woman at the coffee shop. Sat right out there on the patio for everyone to see.” Her mother clutched at her chest. “I was crushed.”