Gertrude had set my usual place beside him as though the last week had never happened.

Conversation moved through familiar subjects: work, an upcoming wedding, a neighbor’s new pool.

Then Kenneth cleared his throat and placed the leather folder in front of me.

“I’d appreciate everybody’s perspective,” he said.

“Giselle has become nervous about a financial opportunity that could help all of us.”

I felt the temperature of the room change.

Aunt Rosa frowned.

“Are you two having money trouble?”