Violet had been asking herself if she could marry anyone her own age, knowing she could never offer him children. She decided God had given her an opportunity to be Mrs. Tolliver Thompson instead. She would start over. She would be the wife of a wealthy doctor, spending her days by the country club pool and shopping at the fanciest stores.

How far out of the lines she’d colored that picture.

Violet shook her head and checked her watch. Genny caught her gaze and held up a bottle of chardonnay and her eyebrows, hurrying over with a refill in response to Violet’s smile. She settled next to her in a red velvet chair, collapsing elegantly and folding her ankles.

“You’re really sweet to host this, Violet. It’s a lot to take on.”

“Not really. Besides, I was promised my pick of placement in return. I’m going to see if there’s a Napping Committee.”

“I’ll join you if there is.” Genny surveyed the room. “They’re almost done. Bitsy apologized for running behind, though it’s only about ten minutes.”

“Bitsy apologizes if someone bumps into her. She apologizes for her hair color, for heaven’s sake.”

Genny shook her head. “That’s just Bitsy. Her husband has convinced her she’s responsible for all that’s wrong in the world. It’s sad.”

Violet said, “Yes, it is.” She wondered what time Tolly would get home. “Let’s see if we can help wrap things up.” She clinked her glass to Genny’s and rose to begin hinting at the crowd around the refreshment table. “Melanie,” she said, “Won’t you take some of this cake home to your family?”

Fifteen minutes later she and Genny had graciously dismissed everyone with hugs and food packages. They were clearing the table when Violet heard Tolly’s car enter the garage. She told Genny, “I’ll finish this—there’s practically nothing to do. Thank you for all your help.” She handed her friend a small, gift-wrapped box she’d hidden earlier. “Don’t get too excited. It’s just chocolates.”

Genny laughed and hugged her. “Chocolates no one knows about but me. Do you know what a rare and precious gift this is? Better than diamonds and gold and a sable bedspread, Vi. I love you.” She made a tiny finger waggle and gathered her purse, tucking the present inside. Violet smiled, then closed her eyes and prayed Genny would be out the front door quickly.

She carried a stack of dishes to the kitchen and began washing them, one eye on the hallway to the garage door. As her husband rounded the corner she sucked in her stomach and plastered a smile onto her face.

Tolly looked happy, she thought. She exhaled a little as he pecked her cheek.

“I’m starving,” he announced.