CHAPTER TWENTY-SIXMallory
May 24, 2016
Jenna and Ryan arrive on time. While having already seen them individually lessens the shock, I’m unprepared for the strike of reality that hits me when I see them together. I hide this thought with a smile as we all hug, acting as if it’s the first time we are seeing each other the best we can. I assume by now they’ve probably told each other about my surprise visits, but I still want to let my mom feel she was in control of how I’m acclimating with being back home.
“Oh, Renee,” Jenna says. “It smells incredible in here.”
“Thank you, dear.” She smiles and brings a bottle of wine to the table. “Mallory always loved my lasagna, and I haven’t made it since . . .” She almost seems to catch herself, then rights her smile. “Well, for years.”
“Can I he
