For the fifth time, they forgot to invite me for Christmas. So, I bought a mountain house just for myself. A week later, they showed up with a spare key to intrude, thinking I was alone.

Little did they know I had a police officer, cameras, and a lawyer by my side.

I wasn’t supposed to find out about their Christmas plans this year. The invitation that never came wasn’t meant to be discussed in my presence.

But when your eight-year-old grandson FaceTimes you because he misses you, secrets have a way of spilling out. “Grandma, why aren’t you coming for Christmas again?” Ethan’s innocent face filled my iPad screen, his forehead wrinkled in genuine confusion.

“What do you mean, sweetheart?” I kept my voice light, though something cold settled in my stomach.

“Dad said, ‘You’re busy this year. Are you going somewhere fun instead? Can I come with you?’”

Behind him, I could see the familiar wallpaper of my son Michael’s living room.

Holiday decorations already adorning every surface.

It was only December 1st. “I’m not sure what your dad means, Ethan.

No one’s talked to me about Christmas plans yet.”

His little face scrunched up. “But everyone’s coming to our house.

Mom’s making lists.

She has a special folder called Christmas 2023 with everyone’s names. I saw it.”

“Is my name on that list, Ethan?”

Before he could answer, a hand appeared, taking the iPad from him. My daughter-in-law Victoria’s perfectly made-up face replaced Ethan’s.

“Ethan, you know you’re not supposed to use the iPad without asking.” She scolded, then noticed me.

“Oh, Eleanor, sorry about that. He’s going through a boundary-testing phase.”

“Victoria, I was just asking Ethan about Christmas.

It seems you’re hosting.”

Her smile tightened almost imperceptibly. “Oh, we’re still finalizing details.

Nothing set in stone.”

“I see.” I kept my face pleasantly neutral — a skill perfected over 62 years of life and 39 years of teaching university students.

“Well, when you do finalize things, please let me know. I’d love to see the grandchildren.”

“Of course. I should go.

Ethan needs to finish his homework.

Say goodbye to Grandma, Ethan.”

I heard his muffled, “Bye, Grandma,” before the call ended. Sitting alone in my too-quiet house, I stared at the blank screen for several long moments.