Where did you get that ring

his shoulders.

I opened the door but left the chain on.

His eyes moved to the chain, and pain crossed his face.

Good, I thought again.

Some pain teaches.

“Merry Christmas, Mom,” he said.

“Merry Christmas.”

“I know I’m not supposed to come by.”

“No,” I said. “You’re not.”

He nodded. “I won’t stay.”

He reached into his coat and pulled out a small plastic bag. continue reading …