Chapter 2: Farewell to MamaThe front room of the funeral home is stuffy, although the whirr of the air conditioner carries on mightily, rising above the quiet conversation of the mourners. Savannah sticks close to her little sister, whose pregnant belly stretches the fabric of the one dark dress she owns. Savannah’s husband Bruce is there, stiff looking in his old grey suit and a tie Savannah remembers from when they were dating—what seems like a hundred years ago.
Family friend and neighbor Frank McElhenny sidles up to the sisters, offering a hand to Savannah and patting Serena awkwardly on the shoulder. His gray eyes offer understanding and connection. For the girls, the understanding is especially appreciated.
“Have you seen Molly lately?” Savannah asks.
Frank looks even more like a
