“Not funny,” Evie groaned. “My brain is still growing, and these boobs aren’t going to grow themselves,” she said, pushing her small cleavage upward.

“Evie!” Kate said, slapping her arm and looking around. Mia couldn’t contain her laughter.

“I thought it was funny,” Mia whispered to Evie. “And, unfortunately, the women of our family don’t get big bosoms.”

“Bosoms?” Evie said.

“Boobs. We get average sized ones, but we get very nice skin that ages well.”

Evie rolled her eyes. “Great. I’m sure all the boys are looking for girls with nicely aging skin.”

They continued walking and talking, and Kate couldn’t help but enjoy it. She liked watching Evie interact with Mia, but a part of her was a bit jealous. At home, her daughter definitely didn’t treat her the same way. She was abrasive, irritable and almost like a scalded dog at times.

As they walked into the bistro, Kate looked around. It was a cute enough little place, but definitely not fancy. There was a black and white checkerboard floor, dated floral valances and little metal bistro tables scattered around in no particular pattern.

“They have the best Cuban sandwiches here,” Mia said, looking up at the menu printed on the wall above the cash register.

Kate ordered a tuna sandwich with a side salad, Mia got the Cuban with a cup of soup and Evie ordered a loaded baked potato. They all sat down to wait for their food.

“So, what do you think of our little town so far?”

Kate struggled with what to say. “It’s… quaint.”

Evie rolled her eyes. “Jeez, Mom. That’s all you can say? Aunt Mia, I think this place is awesome. It’s so cozy and quiet.”

Kate looked at her daughter. “Since when does a fifteen year old like quiet?”

She shrugged her shoulders. “I didn’t know what I was missing. I could totally see myself living here.”

Mia grinned. “Really? Oh, that would be amazing! Maybe Evie could just stay for the summer?”

“No,” Kate said, probably a little too firmly.

“Oh. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have pushed,” Mia said, standing up. “I need to add a little more ice to my tea. Excuse me.”

“Mom, do you have to be so rude?” Evie growled.

“What is going on with you?”

“I don’t know what you mean.”

“Evie, you’re playing games. I know it. You know it. I just don’t understand your angle.”

Evie took a big bite of her potato, enough to overly fill her mouth, and smiled at her mother as Mia came back to the table.

They ate silently for a few moments before Kate felt guilty. “Sorry I seemed short with you. It’s just that I couldn’t be all the way in Rhode Island and leave my daughter in Georgia for a whole summer.”