We took the cups outside.

The patio had three metal tables and a planter of dried-out grass.

Trent picked the table farthest from the door.

“Gloria misses you,” he said.

“She told us so at dinner last night.”

“Did she, now.”

“She still thinks of you as family.” He stirred his coffee even though he hadn’t added anything to it.

“This only works if you keep up the support payments, Harper.