Family
Christmas, 2012

Julie pulled up in front of the ranch house, more than a little nervous. She hadn't called, didn't know how they'd react, but she didn't care. She had every right to be there.

The presents were slung over her shoulder, carried in her knapsack, and she walked up the steps.

Before she could ring the bell, the door opened and her father stood in the doorway. Neither father nor daughter spoke for several heartbeats, simply staring at each other. Julie finally broke the ice: "Hi daddy, I'm home," her expression a mix of hope and defiance. They hadn't spoken since that phone call the day after everything went to hell, and it hadn't gone well.

Her father didn't say anything, but after a moment gathered her in a fierce bear hug.

"Welcome home," he finally managed, and drew her inside, letting the door shut behind them.