Yet Miriam began to notice how his demeanor changed depending on which child stood before him. With Daniel and Elise, his patience held. With her, it began to fray. By the time Miriam started school, the small signs had become harder to ignore. Her father still showed up at recitals and plays, but his clapping came with less enthusiasm when her turn arrived.
He smiled broadly for Elise’s solos, his eyes bright with pride, while for Miriam he offered only polite acknowledgment, as though he were applauding out of obligation. She told herself it didn’t matter, that at least he was there, but the difference carved at her all the same.