“About three, right after school. The store was open even though the lights were off in the window display, and I went in and saw . . . I guess it was your family in the store and thought you were still there in your office or something.”

“My parents said they were going to return after they had lunch. They were all over town today,” she said, more to herself than to Charlotte.

“You’re not upset with me for stopping in?”

“No, of course not! You can stop in whenever you want, though I won’t be there for a while.” She’d probably be there to help close the place down for good when the time came, but Charlotte didn’t need to know that. “I’m going to Seattle tomorrow for a few days, so I won’t be around, but if you need to call me, you can.”

“Wow, Seattle, that’s where they throw the fish around, right?” Charlotte asked.

Lauren grinned. “You’re referring to the Pike Place Fish Market, and yes, they do throw fish around, after you buy whatever kind you choose. At least I think that’s how it works.” Charlotte’s naïveté was refreshing to Lauren.

“So why are you going there?” Charlotte asked.

“I am going to interview a man and write about his life; that’s what my real job is.”

“You’re a writer? That’s the most awesome job ever! Do you know J. K. Rowling?”

“No, I don’t. Are you a fan?”

“The biggest in the world—well, Kiley and Lacey are, too. Lacey’s mom buys the books, and we share them. But I still think it’s super-awesome that you’re a writer.”

“Thank you, I enjoy what I do—most of the time,” she said.

“So, like who are you gonna interview? Like a famous person or something?”

“Yes, he is very famous. Actually he’s probably a household name by now. He’s the founder and CEO of Globalgoods.com.”

“We used to shop online sometimes, when Mom felt better and was working. Is it okay if I tell her? She loves books and will want to read it when you finish.”

“I’ll deliver a signed copy to her myself,” Lauren promised. She couldn’t help but wonder if Lee would be around when the book hit the stands. She’d never say this to Charlotte, but she knew it was possible that she wouldn’t be if the transplant did not work.

“I’ll tell her tonight when I call her. I just wanted to thank you again for getting Mom some extra help. I know this might sound corny or whatever, but your stepping in is probably gonna save her life.”

More tears; Lauren blotted her eyes with the hem of her chambray shirt. “No, I think that honor goes to you.”

“Whatever, but we’re grateful, and Mom said to make sure to use that word.”