That had always been Marissa’s gift. She could insult you in a voice appropriate for church.
“I see,” I said. “So I was unsuitable for your evening.”
“Please don’t twist my words.”
“I don’t have to.”
Her smile disappeared then.
“Fine,” she said. “You and I have never really clicked. But that is hardly a reason to throw the entire family into financial chaos.”
I leaned back.
“You aren’t here to apologize.”
“I am here to solve a problem.”
“No,” I said. “You are here because the mortgage noticed.”
That hit her harder than I expected. Her jaw set.
“Garrett told me you’re being emotional.”
“Then Garrett should stop discussing me with you as if I’m a roofing estimate.”
Her nostrils flared.
“Edith, let’s speak honestly. You have always been dramatic where Garrett is concerned. You make these large gestures and then expect gratitude forever.”
I almost laughed.
“Marissa, gratitude forever would have been excessive. Basic respect last night would have done.”
She crossed one leg over the other.
“So what now? You punish all of us? Toby can’t pay his bills. Rebecca’s tuition will be affected. Garrett is trying to refinance around a problem you created.”
“I created?”