“We need all the counter space we can get.”

I set the scalloped potatoes next to the stainless steel sink and took off my heavy wool coat.

“Did he say anything to you on the porch?” Dana asked.

“Not a single word,” I said.

Dana shook her head and went back to stirring the simmering beans.

“He’s been in a strange mood all morning,” Dana said.

I opened my canvas tote bag and took out a big plastic container of deviled eggs.

Then I reached down to the bottom of the bag and brought out June’s old glass serving plate.