CHAPTER 19

“Pass the milk shake pitcher,” Trish said the next evening as we all sat in the living room. “I’m getting low.”

I did as she asked, and then I looked around at the other women gathered together there. Along with Trish, Grace was there as the guest of honor, and we’d decided to invite Leah as well. After all, without her, we might not be having this particular party.

Momma was out on a date with Chief Martin, and Jake was due in tomorrow.

For the second, and unprecedented, day in a row, Donut Hearts had been closed for business. Emma and I would reopen tomorrow, but right now, I was there for Grace, and in a way, Leah as well.

“Everyone, fill up your glasses,” I said as I stood. The other women joined me, and I hoisted my own glass in the air. “This was supposed to be a time for Grace to grieve,” I said, “but I propose that we change tonight’s theme to strong women sticking together in times of crisis. Anyone else agree?”

“I do, but I’d like to add something else of my own, if you don’t mind,” Grace said, tapping her glass to mine.

“By all means,” I said as I touched my glass back to hers.

Grace added, “To friendship.”

“To loyalty,” Leah added.

“To us,” Trish finished with a smile, and we all drank deeply.