She eyed the woman’s faded, worn dress and old shoes with pity. The man wouldn’t even allow her to dress decently. Surely he could afford better clothes than this for her. “Good morning, Miz Baker,” she said, pulling the door open farther. “Come on in. Can I get you something to drink?” Mrs. Baker seemed to collect herself with an effort. “I sure would like a Coke,” she said. “I don’t get to drink them at home.” The wistful tone of those words made Wanda Nell’s heart ache for the poor woman. “Of course you can have a Coke,” she said, laying a gentle hand on the woman’s arm. “Come on in. Jack’s here to meet you. We’ll find y’all a quiet place to talk, and I’ll bring you as many Cokes as you want.” A brief smile hovered on Mrs. Baker’s lips, and she allowed Wanda Nell to lead her into the restaurant. Jack came up to them, and when he spoke, his voice was soft. “Good morning, Miz Baker. Thanks for coming to talk to me.” Sandra Baker stared into his face for a moment.
