Chapter 8 ~ December 19 Feast of the Seven FishesThe Italian Club’s traditional Feast of the Seven Fishes was a lavish holiday tradition for its members, especially those wistful for the old ways. Garlands of fresh pine, twinkling lights, and candles made the ballroom sparkle and the women glow, even the older ones. The room was warm—some said stuffy—but it created a convivial atmosphere and men were soon hanging their jackets on the backs of chairs and rolling up their sleeves.
The evening began with a benediction from Father Francisco, a toast to about a dozen saints, none of whom Freda cared one whit about, she being of the practical Catholic persuasion. If there’s a god, he’s damn late to the party, she would huff whenever the topic of religion arose, then cross herself just in case.
