Chapter 17

Martha looked visibly upset when a girl suddenly walked in. "Whoa, everyone's here! Grandma, what are you talking about?" The cheerful voice belonged to Dorothy Howard, the daughter from the third branch. Martha's stern expression softened at the sight of her. "Dorothy, how's your piano going? The exam's coming up soon, right?" "Don't worry, Grandma. I'm totally ready for it!" "Our Dorothy's been working so hard. Her teacher even said she's naturally talented," chimed in her mother proudly. Standing there, Clara could literally feel herself becoming invisible. Like, what was she? Air? She rolled her eyes and slipped out quietly. No one even noticed. She headed straight to find her mom, Nancy. At that moment, Nancy was busy in the kitchen helping with lunch prep. "Here, start trimming this veggie." "Rinse the green peppers." "Peel the garlic, will you?" She was running around like a maid—just like always. Clara walked up and grabbed her hand. "Mom, why are you doing all this?" "I'm just