“Your apple pie?”
I laughed. “You didn’t even have to ask.”
Flowers brightened the windowsill, coordinating cushions decorated the sofa, and framed photographs showed Ethan and Vanessa smiling together. Vanessa welcomed me enthusiastically.
“It’s so nice to finally meet you, Helen!”
Ethan embraced me too, although his arms stayed around me longer than usual.
“You okay, sweetheart?” I whispered.
“Yeah, Mom. I’m glad you’re here.” Birthdayparty planning
Taking the pie toward the kitchen, I asked, “Where should I put this?”
“The fridge,” Vanessa said.
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tablecloth
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Inside, most shelves were empty.
“Have you two been too busy to shop?”
Vanessa laughed.
“Ethan’s paycheck is already gone.”
She casually described her system: every time she prepared something for him, she charged a fee. Because his account was overdue, she refused to cook for him until his next payday. Eyeing the dessert, she added,
