Since his diagnosis, this was always the first question anyone close to them asked when she called. “They’re fine, at least they were when I left the house this morning. Mom would call if something drastic happened. Listen,” she paused, trying to gather her thoughts, “I need a huge favor. As in gigantic.”

Maggie’s laughter trilled across the phone line. “I’m open. What’s this ‘huge’ and ‘gigantic’ favor?”

“Hear me out. This has all happened so fast, I haven’t even had a chance to tell Mom or Dad, so you’ll have to keep it to yourself if you choose to do what I’m about to ask. Then, of course, I’ll call Mom and Dad and tell them.”

Lauren explained the details of her new contract and why she had to act immediately.

“Lauren Montgomery, I can’t believe you would even think I’d have to consider this. Of course, I’ll fill in for you. I know that place like the back of my hand. I still have a set of keys.”

Lauren knew that, as Maggie had worked with her parents many times when an extra employee was needed, but she wasn’t one to assume that, just because Maggie was like family, she would be able to work on demand.

“Thank you so much. I can’t tell you what this means to me. Now I’m going to call Mom. If all goes according to plan, just show up at the store tomorrow, and I’ll stay in touch.”

“I’m going to cancel a few craft sessions,” Maggie said. “I can’t wait.”

Lauren had no more than ended the call when her cell lit up.

She answered immediately. “Details,” Lauren said, using Angela’s briskness.

“Dang, you’re sounding more like me with every call,” Angela said.

“Time is passing. Tell me the details. I’ve got a boatload of things to do before I leave.”

Angela explained the travel arrangements and all that Lauren needed to know for her trip to Seattle tomorrow afternoon, promising to e-mail the flight information.

“Okay, then. I’ll keep you posted from my end,” Lauren said. “Talk soon.”

There were a zillion and one things to do before she left, but first, she needed to call her parents and tell them before Maggie decided to break the news. Not that Lauren expected her to, but she was known for sharing good news a bit too soon, as she excited quite easily.

She dialed her parents’ landline, the same number they’d had since she was born. Her mother answered. “Hello.”

“It’s just me, Mom,” Lauren said. “How’s Dad feeling?”

She heard her mother’s intake of breath, which could mean anything. “Oh, he’s in a mood today.”

Lauren smiled. At least it wasn’t his health. Her mother’s “in a mood” meant they were out of her father’s favorite breakfast cereal, which ruined his day. Lauren didn’t want to hazard a guess as to why.

“I’ll stop at the grocery on my way home.”

“Thanks, honey. Your dad is a total grouch if he doesn’t have his favorite brand of rice puffs. He acts like a two-year-old, but don’t tell him I said that.”