CHAPTER 25
Charley left Morgan behind the house to help clean up. She went into the kitchen through the back door. Constance and Katherine buzzed around the room, packing baskets with food.
Soot stained Constance’s peach-colored dress and her usual tidy bun was fuzzy with loose hairs. “Katherine, take the sandwiches to the men. Then come back and get the lemonade.” Constance wiped her hands on her dirty apron and turned. Her eyes found Charley, popped, and then she smiled. “Charlotte.”
Charley walked to her. “Mother.”
Constance took Charley into her arms. “Darling, I was worried sick about you.” She held Charley at arm’s length. “Let me look at you.” Constance wiped at Charley’s cheek with her thumb. “You’ve been crying. I presume you know about Billy.”
Charley nodded. Her mother smel
