“I bet she does.” Marge laughed weakly. “It’s good to know I can depend on people.”

“You know you can always depend on Franny to bring Austrian ravioli.” Lucy chuckled. “Don’t worry about things here. Just take care of yourself and Barney.”

Lucy opened the door for Franny. “Goodness, you’re up and about early, Franny. Want some coffee?”

“No, thanks, I have to get Mother to church at eight for choir practice. I had this in the freezer and thought Marge might be able to use it. It’s Austrian ravioli.”

Lucy stifled a smile. “That’s so sweet of you, Franny. It’s still frozen, so I think I’ll just put it in the freezer. Goodness knows when Marge will get back.”

“I’ve got to run, Lucy. Mother hates to be late.”

Lucy was making herself a cup of instant coffee when Eddie appeared in the kitchen, barefoot and in pajamas.

“Where’s Mom?”

“Your mom and dad were called away on an emergency last night, Eddie. I spent the night here. What do you usually have for breakfast?”

“Scrambled eggs.”

“I’ll mix ’em up while you get dressed,” Lucy said cheerfully. “And be sure to put something on your feet.”

While she cooked Lucy wondered how to tell Eddie the bad news. She wanted to get some food in him before she told him, and she wanted him to have something else to think about. She quickly dialed Pam Stillings and asked if Eddie could spend the day with Adam.

Eddie soon reappeared, dressed in new Christmas clothes. Lucy set a plate in front of him and sipped her coffee while she watched him eat.

“Did you have a good Christmas, Eddie? What did Santa bring?”

“Electronic football. I really wanted that.”

“Sounds like fun. Maybe you could take it over to Adam’s house. I’m going to drop you off there on my way home, okay?”

“Sure. Where are Mom and Dad?”

“Eddie, your dad had an accident last night.” Lucy spoke softly. “They took him to the hospital in Portland. Your mom called a little while ago. Your dad had surgery, and he did real well, but he’s still unconscious. He’s a big strong man, Eddie, and I think he’ll be fine.”

“Dad once lifted a car off a little girl.”

“I remember that,” said Lucy. “It was on the TV news.”

“Yeah.” Eddie’s eyes shone with pride.

“Well, he’ll probably be in the news again. Meanwhile, you’re going to Adam’s. Mom will be home later, and you’ll probably have leftover turkey for supper. Do you like that?”

“Yeah.” Eddie nodded, swallowing hard.

“Let’s get a move on,” said Lucy. “How about combing your hair and brushing your teeth?”

“Do I have to?”