Sierra

My grandfather nodded slowly, as if he had reached some conclusion.

“I see,” he said. “It seems you like salty food. If that’s the case, I won’t keep it away from you.”

His gaze settled on my mother. She didn’t flinch or even blink. It was as if she were used to this.

“Go ahead,” he continued calmly. “Eat it, then.”

My mother bowed her head. “Yes, Father.”

She stepped forward, picked up his tray, still full of sushi, and began to eat. She ate standing there, obedient and quiet, shoving the food into her mouth as if that was all she was worth. Like a dog allowed scraps...