The Better Daughter

Synopsis

"Claire, 50 grand." My mother's voice was flat, as if she were just checking what was for dinner. I gripped the phone, glancing out the window. The March wind still had a bite to it. My reflection stared back at me from the glass. Just thirty-five years old, but fine lines already bridge the corners of my eyes. "It's for the memorial," she said. "Sophie's twentieth anniversary is coming up. The headstone is looking weathered. We're having it recut. Your father and I decided on the inscription, 'The Pride of the Linwoods.'" The Pride of the Linwoods. I opened my mouth to speak, but the words died in my throat. "Wire the money this week," she added after a beat. "If Sophie were still here, she'd be far more successful than you. You can afford it." I stared at the familiar number on the screen. "Fine," I said. "I'll send it."