My siblings mocked me as a “crazy old woman” for adopting a newborn—until they saw the birth certificate and broke down in tears.

a baby because you feel lonely.”

That was when my own temper rose. “Do not reduce her life to my loneliness.”

“Then what is this?” Selene demanded. “A grief project? A second chance? Some fantasy that you can replace the family you already had?”

The room went still.

My voice came out low. “Leave.”

Orson glanced at the baby, then at me. “Mariah, let’s all continue reading …