“Steven wouldn’t stand for me having my own business, and heaven forbid if I made any money at it. I’ve mentioned it to him I don’t know how many times, and he just scoffs at me. He says he doesn’t need the hassle, like I wouldn’t be responsible for my own actions.”

“He’s gone all the time. Why shouldn’t you be able to do your thing? The boys are out of the house so no excuses now. Get some gumption. I could help, not with the cooking but with the financial end of the business. Think about it. We’d make a great team.” Sarah tied off the yellow yarn; the next color she tied on was blue.

Margo worked in silence, not replying to her friend. Sarah seemed to sense Margo’s distress and changed the subject. “What scrumptious dinner are you concocting in honor of Alex’s girl?”

Jorden’s ears perked up as she strained to listen.

Margo jumped in to describe her menu. “I’m making thyme-roasted rock Cornish hens, steamed broccoli with béarnaise sauce, saffron rice, along with a mixed green salad, and homemade rolls. The dessert will be individual chocolate tarts, each topped with a scoop of French vanilla ice cream.”

“Yum! This should impress her. What’s her name? I think you told me.”

“Yes, several times. Her name is Jorden Marshall. You just don’t listen. Should I write it down for you?” Margo laughed.

“Don’t be smart! What’s she like?”

“Don’t you have the questions?” Dusting off her hands, Jorden watched Margo reach up to the wicker basket above the refrigerator and pull out several photos. “Here’s one of them taken in Columbus, Georgia.” She handed the picture to Sarah.

“She’s lovely. They make a nice looking couple.”

Jorden smiled at the compliment.

“Why are you hesitating? You’re holding something back. What is it?” Sarah looked at Margo.

“I don’t know.”

“You can do better. Spit it out. You’re troubled.”

“I’ll be straight with you. Jorden isn’t Catholic. She’s Protestant. Methodist, I believe. Alex says she has agreed to convert and raise their children in the Catholic faith, but . . .”

“But what—sounds like she is being reasonable. Give her a chance, at least for Alex’s sake.”

“Bravo for Sarah!” Jorden mumbled under her breath. She almost clapped, but then she remembered she was hiding behind the bushes.