Chapter 3 - THE CHAIR AT THE HEAD OF THE TABLE
Louis had claimed Ernest’s chair three months earlier.
He did it gradually.
At first, he sat there only when Ernest was late.
Then he began moving Ernest’s coffee mug to the side.
Eventually, he told guests the chair hurt Ernest’s back.
That was a lie.
The chair was carved oak, built by Ernest’s father.
Margaret had refinished it after their wedding.
Every Thanksgiving photograph showed Ernest sitting in it with his family gathered around him.
Louis understood what the chair represented.
That was why he wanted it.
He had moved back into the house “temporarily” after his marketing company failed.
Carla came with him.
They brought six suitcases, three televisions, a wine refrigerator, and no plan to leave.
At first, Ernest welcomed them.
He paid their debts.
Covered their car lease.
Bought groceries.
Paid for Carla’s dental work.
He even gave Louis access to a household card so his son would not feel embarrassed.
Within six months, Louis began speaking as if he had rescued Ernest.
He told relatives his father was confused.
He called the house difficult to maintain.
He hinted that Ernest had wasted his retirement.
None of it was true.
But Ernest did not correct him.
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Not yet.
