Margaret knocked on the door, and her mom answered.


    “Welcome home, honey! We’re so glad you came for Christmas! I was worried you wouldn’t make it.”


    “Me too, Mom. The delays were horrible.”


    If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    She hugged her mom, and her father came up and hugged her as well.


    “Where’s Ralph?”


    Ralph barked and wagged his tail.


    “There you are, boy.” She picked him up and kissed him.


    But then she placed him down gently and sighed.


    “Bob … End simulation.”


    The holograms vanished while she stared at the family memorial with urns on a shelf.


    “I just can’t pretend anymore …”