Hazel bustled into the kitchen, looking healthier than she had in a while. “You’re a guest and I won’t have you touching one single dish.” “Too late. I’ve touched more than one.” Aumaleigh plunged her hands into the steaming wash water and began scrubbing the glassware. “Go back in the dining room, Hazel. Spend time with your son and new daughter-in-law.” “Forget the in-law part. She’s a daughter. My daughter.” Hazel teared up, her chin wobbling with the strength of her emotions. “I love that niece of yours. Just love her.” “Which is why you’re going to turn back around and leave me to do the clean-up.” She used the no-nonsense tone she reserved for bossing the cowboys around. “You’re Iris’s mother now. Go celebrate with her.” “When you put it like that, how can I say no?” Hazel wrung her hands. “You’re a wily one, Aumaleigh.” “I try.
