Julia tugged on the bottom of her blouse, wishing she looked at sophisticated as effortlessly as Maddy did. She’d been gone that morning by the time Julia had finally stumbled her way into the kitchen to get caffeinated for the day. She’d returned with a brown bakery box, already dressed in her classy clothes and ready for this meeting with Vivian.
A sharp knock sounded on the front door, and Julia turned in that direction while Maddy got to her feet. Tessa had left ten minutes ago, claiming she needed a walk along the beach to iron her thoughts flat, and that she’d stop by Helen’s afterward. Julia appreciated Tessa’s willingness to stay out of the way during the meeting, and she was grateful for Tessa’s hospitality and friendship.
Julia stepped over to the door and opened it. Vivian sto
