Chapter 1December
My mother, Adela Holly, was waiting for me when I arrived at baggage claim at Burlington Airport in Vermont. She opened her arms without a word, and I allowed myself to be enveloped into one of her big, strong hugs.
“Welcome home.”
Vermont hadn’t been my home in years, of course. But it would be now, again.
Fortunately, mom had room when my life pretty much fell apart.
I pulled back and gave her a smile. “Thanks, Mom.”
She gave my arm a squeeze. “The board thingy says the bags should be coming out in a few minutes. How was the flight?”
“Long. And I couldn’t even sleep. Never can.”
“Nope, me either. But you’ll sleep good tonight I bet. I’ve got your room and bathroom already for you. As closed off from the rest of the house as I could manage to give you some privac
