Leila and Bessie sit side-by-side on a small wooden bench in Ash’s parents’ backyard. Miss Marple runs around wildly, chasing chipmunks and squirrels. The April sun is warm and cool at the same time. The girls tilt their heads back to soak it up. Sophie, dressed in old jeans and a plaid shirt and gloves, is yanking out weeds in her gardens on either side of the flagstone path.
“Bessie, would you mind going inside and bringing out the iced tea? It’s in the fridge.” She stands up, smiling. “And some glasses. Bring four. Gianni might be home from work soon.”
The sisters share a look. It’s not that long ago that Ash’s parents were separated by grief as well as distance. And that Sophie had lain in a hospital bed after accidently setting the master bedroom on fire in a drunken state.
“Sure,
