Caira sat on the floor, banging a wooden spoon on a dented pan and chattering to her rag doll, which was propped against the cupboard door. Sophie’s return to the boardinghouse had been a relief. Being at the parsonage day and night, when she was sick, had pushed her into a melancholy state. Ian’s nearness interfered with her attempt to bring an end to her growing feelings for him. Sophie stirred the golden batter with vigor, wanting her yellow cake to be light and fluffy for the coming church workday at the boardinghouse. Maggie hummed as she dusted in the other room. A knock sounded at the back door. Sophie pushed aside the curtain to find Nora standing on the stoop. She squinted in the bright sunlight. Pulling open the door, Sophie greeted her friend. “Nora! What brings you here? Come in.” The girl stepped over the threshold. She wore a muted green plaid suit and held an apron over one arm while she carried a basket in the same hand. “I’ve brought quince jelly, compliments of Aunt Gertie.
