“We still have fun. We watch a lot of movies together. The old ones. Maybe you’d like to visit her with me after your tests. You’re a lot stronger than she is. I think you could make the car trip to Miami.”

Decker looked at her. “At meshuga?”

Are you crazy?

They had bought a place in Israel and already he was speaking Hebrew. Rina ignored him. “Come with us, Ida. We’ll do a girls’ road trip.”

“How will I get back?” Ida said.

“I can take you back, Ida,” Blossom said. “I have a car. It’s just Randy and I came in one car. And you can stay with us in Miami.”

Randy started coughing.

“Nonsense,” Rina said. “My mom’s condo has three bedrooms. We’ll be perfectly comfortable together.”

Randy mouthed a silent thank-you.

“Come with us, Ida,” Blossom said. “It’ll be fun.”

Ida puffed up her chest. “Maybe I’ll do that.” She stood up. “Dessert, anyone?”

“I think we’re all up for your pies,” Rina said.

“If I don’t eat all the chocolate pecan by myself,” Blossom said.

Rina said, “Why don’t you two detectives talk shop while we clear the table, and we’ll call you when we’re set up for dessert and coffee.”

“Great idea.” Blossom stood up and started clearing the dirty dishes. “I’ll make the coffee. I brought a special blend. It’s caffeinated, though.”

“Who needs sleep?” Rina stood and began taking in the platters of food. “This was fun.”

“It sure was.” Blossom turned to Ida. “Fun, right?”

The old woman stifled a smile. Then she mumbled, “Shoulda held out for girls.”

CHAPTER 8

MOMMY!” JULEEN RAN into my arms, and I bent down to give her the biggest hug I could muster with my arm in a cast. “Are you okay, Mommy? How do you feel?”

I was trying to keep my eyes dry. “I’m doing much better.”

“You can talk!”

“Yes, I can.” I let her go from my embrace and stood up, keeping her hands in mine. My son’s suite was done in brown leather and suede. Red silk pillows on the sofa, and a yellow plaid blanket was draped over a modern but oversize cushy-looking chair. At least it had some warmth in it. The biggest tell that it was Gabe’s was the concert grand Steinway in the middle of the room. It was also where Chris kept his cello. It was out of the case, on its side next to a music stand. Juleen’s violin case and chair sat opposite, about four feet away. “Pretty nice setup.”

She hugged my waist. “I’m so glad you’re here!”

“Me too, priya, me too.”

Chris was standing over a small table, looking through papers. “Is this your homework for today?”

“Yes.”

“Why didn’t you do it?”

“I was waiting for you to come. You’re two hours later than usual.”