Mrs. Atkins nodded, with her mouth full of cookies. When she had swallowed, she assured her that yes, Melanie took very good care of her. They sat and chatted for another fifteen or twenty minutes, and then Sarah got up to take leave. Mrs. Atkin shuffled with her out to the front door, and Sarah told her she would stand outside to make sure Mrs. Atkin would put the chain back on after she had gone out.
"By the way," Sarah added, just as she was about to leave, to give the impression that the question was not of much consequence, "I don't suppose you have heard from Ryan, have you?"
Mrs. Atkins looked blank for a second like she had no idea who Ryan was. Then she shook her head. "Cannot say as I have, baby. But why?"
"Oh, no reason. I was just thinking... if Melanie does not come back...
