Chapter 43

“I think it was in October.”

“Last year?”

“Oh, no. I believe it was back in October of 1992, or was it 1993?”

“It was 1993, dear,” her sister said.

“Why don’t you give the twins a call?” Chris said, doing his best not to smile. “Maybe they can take care of things to your satisfaction after the azaleas bloom next spring.”

“What a good idea,” Sarah said. “Do you have their number?”

“Not on me, but I’ll get it for you. Meanwhile, do you ladies have a minute or two to talk about something important?”

“Certainly,” Parah said. “We have nothing but time on our hands.”

23

Jacksonville, FL

THE CLARK SISTERS invited Chris to join them on their front porch, and he followed them up the steps, where the sisters settled down in rocking chairs.

Sarah said, “Now have a seat, Chris, and tell us what’s got you so riled up?”

“Is it that obvious?” he said before taking a seat.

“Oh, yes,” Parah said. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so upset, so tell us about it.”