The front doorbell chimed, followed by two firm knocks.
Leo jumped up to open it, revealing Brandon’s parents, Arthur Sr. and Eleanor, standing on the porch holding a large box of freshly baked blueberry muffins and a brand-new digital camera.
“Grandma Eleanor! Grandpa Art!” the twins cheered, running over to hug them.
Over the last five years, Brandon’s parents had remained an active, loving part of our lives. Disgusted by their son’s heartless behavior, they had functionally disowned Brandon’s toxic mindset and stepped in as surrogate grandparents for Leo and Lucas, attending every soccer game, school play, and birthday party.
“Happy first day of fifth grade, boys!” Eleanor beamed, kneeling down to hug them both tightly. “We came to take your annual first-day picture!”
“How are my favorite boys doing?” Arthur Sr. asked, stepping into the kitchen and setting the muffins on the counter. He looked over at me with a warm, proud smile. “You look great, Clara. Everything ready for the big day?”
