“Back so soon?” asked Judy. “The children were telling me—”
“We didn’t tell her anything,” Paul protested, looking frightened.
“The children only said you’ve been having trouble, Mrs. Riker,” Judy explained. “I hope we can be of some help.”
“You’re very kind,” the woman sitting beside Horace said, “but I’m afraid nobody can help me very much. I did have plans, but now everything has changed. I’m so nervous and upset, I don’t even want to talk about it.”
“Then don’t talk about it until you’re rested. Come into the house,” Judy offered, “and I’ll make you a cup of hot tea. There are cookies and chocolate milk for the children—”
“Did you hear that, Penny?” asked Paul. “I’ll race you!”
They were off before their mother could stop them. On the porch they found Blackberry and called back to Judy.
“Is this your cat? Is it all right if we pet him?”
“Ask Blackberry. He’s the one to decide.”
“He likes us,” Paul announced as the others came up onto the porch. They were just in time, as it was beginning to rain. Mrs. Riker hesitated.