Chapter 72

“Bread anyone?” Barry asked, holding up a basket of cloverleaf rolls. “They’re homemade.”

Everyone took one. Jake, Jimmy, and Zane soon asked for a second.

“And don’t forget the veggies,” Bess said, handing the pot of green bean casserole to Gary

The casserole had been Bess’s creation. Barry didn’t care for green beans, but knew the dish was traditional at Thanksgiving. Barry had contributed roasted cauliflower with bacon and dates. He was gratified to see that the men took equal quantities of both.

“Oh, the Brussels sprouts,” Barry said, getting to his feet.

“Don’t like Brussels sprouts,” Jimmy muttered.

“You haven’t eaten mine,” Barry said, patting the man’s blue flannel shoulder on the way to the kitchen.

Barry returned a moment later with a gratin dish, its contents still bubbling from the oven. “Made with gouda cheese and cream.” He set the sprouts next to Jimmy’s plate.