Hannah asked for the tenth time, standing in the kitchen archway, where she could stare at the front door. “I’m sure it’ll be shortly,” Ester answered, rewashing dishes the child had washed so fast the plates had barely gotten wet. She didn’t mind. It kept her busy while waiting. Though she fought it, her insides were as excited as they used to be when waiting for Brett to come over. “Do you think he’ll remember me?” the girl asked, smoothing down the long black hair she’d brushed a few minutes ago. “Yes, he’ll remember you,” Ester assured. Both children had cleaned up for their brother’s visit and put on their Sunday best. She’d changed as well, put on the dress she planned on wearing to Jesse’s graduation ceremony next week. A blue chiffon with a pleated bodice and layered skirt she’d just finished last night. “I don’t know,” Jesse said, crossing the room to muss Hannah’s hair with one hand.
