Frank’s forehead wrinkled. “Don’t see how that’s possible.”

“That’s why you’re here? Because of Marge?”

“No, I just wanted to mention it so I could see the look on your face.”

Mitch scowled. “How’s this for a look?”

Frank laughed. “Marge is a wonderful lady, you know. There’s a lot more to her than you probably think.”

“What’d you really come here for?”

“To check on you. To see how you’re doing since bringing your parents home yesterday.”

With his left hand, Mitch massaged his right shoulder where it was tight from shoveling all day. He had appreciated it when Frank showed up at the hospital Sunday. He knew Frank cared. But he wasn’t too sure about all the checking up going on. First Marge, now Frank. And he wasn’t too sure how he felt about Frank acting like they hadn’t spent the last two years estranged.

“We’re hopeful Mom will be less disoriented now that her infection is under control. The doctor’s got her on supplements and antibiotics and a strict diet.”

“That’s good news. I’ll keep praying for her. But I asked how you are doing. And don’t say fine.”

“Oh, please.” Mitch leaned his head back on the chair. “Not this again.”

Frank leaned toward him. “Not what?”

Mitch stifled another groan. It was like déjà vu, Frank looking all concerned and trying to pull the truth out of him with his pastor voice about how not fine Mitch really was. When they’d gotten the news about Caroline . . .

Mitch scrubbed a hand over his face. It’d be a lot easier to get mad at Frank if he wasn’t so darn sincere about it all.

Frank softened his voice. “Am I not allowed to care about my best friend?”

“Well, how are you doing?”

Frank sat back.

Mitch shrugged. “I’ll tell you how I’m doing if you go first.”

“Okay.” Frank nodded. “That’s fair.”

“And don’t say fine.”

Frank chuckled.

Mitch waited.

Frank studied the floor.

Mitch raised his eyebrows. “It’s not so easy, is it?”

Frank clutched his knees with his fingers. “People usually jump at the chance to tell me about their problems, but no one ever wonders about mine.”

“I’m wondering now. How’s everything? How’s your family?”

“Hannah’s away at school, as you know. She wants to be a music teacher.”

“That’s great.”

“Yeah.” Frank rubbed his hands together. “We’re very proud. You know how Dorothy loves music. Still getting used to all the college expenses, though. And Seth graduates in May, so the church . . .”

Mitch’s stomach grumbled. Lunch was a long time ago, but food could wait. Something in Frank’s voice made him tense up. “The church what?”

“Oh, it’s nothing.” Frank waved a hand as if clearing smoke. “Just some changes they want to make.”