CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY-THREE: OLD FRIENDS AND NEW DRAMA

"Mom?" Claire called out cautiously. "Everything okay?" Evelyn looked up, forcing a smile. "Oh, hi sweetie. Yes, everything's fine. Your father's in the garage if you're looking for him, Mason." Mason nodded, sensing the need for some mother-daughter time. "I'll go see if he needs any help with that car." As Mason left, Claire approached her mother. "Mom, what's going on? You seem upset." Evelyn sighed, putting down the knife. "Is it that obvious?" Claire nodded, concern etched on her face. "Talk to me. What's wrong?" Evelyn hesitated, then spoke in a low voice. "It's your father. Ever since he retired, things have been... different. He's restless, irritable. We've been arguing more than ever." Claire's eyes widened in surprise. "What? But you and Dad have always been so solid." Evelyn's eyes welled up with tears. "I know. I thought so too. But now... I don't know what to do, Claire. Should I suggest counseling? Try to work it out ourselves? I'm at a loss." Claire felt a wave