“If there are restrictions about the amount of paper supplies one family can purchase at a regular grocery store, the humans who work in the Courtyard will be looking to make up the difference by buying items in the Market Square stores,” Eve said. “And speaking as the property manager, once the sale of those two apartment buildings goes through, there will be the potential for ten human families, with human needs, living there. Maybe the Business Association heard a rumor about shortages.”

Or heard more than a rumor. Meg felt her heart thumping against her chest. Pins and needles filled her arms, and she suddenly craved the relief and release of a cut.

Not now, she thought. Not now. “Simon said we need to keep this between us, that we shouldn’t tell anyone else about storing supplies.” She rubbed one arm and then the other, ignoring the way the other women tensed.

“Maybe we shouldn’t worry about the why and focus on getting the supplies while we can,” Eve said.

The others agreed.

“I think we should buy some canning jars,” Ruth said. “We’ll need them to preserve some of the fruit. Maybe buy some jelly jars too. Meg? Is there any way we could ask some of the Simple Life women for help in learning how to preserve food or make jelly?”

“I can ask,” Meg said.

“Gauze, bandages, and splints.” Theral pointed to Merri Lee’s splinted finger, which had been broken a couple of weeks ago during the fight at the stall market. “Over-the-counter medicines. Other medical supplies.”

Eve nodded. “Speaking as a mother, having some prescription drugs available would be a good idea.”

“Simon said we’re not supposed to, but should we tell...” Meg faltered when she saw the resignation and bitterness in her friends’ eyes.

“Tell who?” Merri Lee asked. “The friends who won’t speak to us anymore?” She tipped her head toward Ruth. “The family who won’t acknowledge us?”

Meg looked at Ruth. “But I thought they were coming over on Windsday to help you and Karl move into your new place.”

Tears filled Ruth’s eyes. “My mom told me all the stuff I’d stored at her house was going out on trash day unless I picked it up before then. It was already at the curb when Karl and I got to the house. My mom stood in the doorway and watched us. Didn’t come out to talk to us. And you know what she yelled to my father when Karl and I finished putting my things in the car? ‘The trash picked up the boxes.’” A sob escaped Ruth before she regained control.

“Problem?” Tess stood in the doorway leading to the back room, her hair completely red and coiling.

“No,” Meg said. “No problem.” How much had Tess heard?