There were six unanswered messages to Rachel and one dismissive reply:

Relax. I’ll be there later.

No apology.

No question about whether the children had eaten.

I handed the phone back.

“I am staying until she arrives.”

Mom looked anxious.

“Please don’t start a war.”

“I’m not starting anything.”

From beneath the table, Noah said, “Mommy says Aunt Kate always starts things.”

I smiled tightly.

Rachel finally arrived at 7:15 p.m. wearing workout clothes and carrying shopping bags.

She entered without knocking.

“Hey, kids. Shoes on.”

Then she noticed me.

“Oh. Kayla.”