Chapter 7

Well, I had fun with Lenore on our shared errands, and I guess now it’s time to pay the piper. 5: Kitchen Revelations

As soon as we walk in, we are met with the picture of Poppi and the kitchen counter covered with flour from baking pies and Aunt Janice sitting at the table smoking. The air is filled with cigarette smoke mingled with the smell of baking pastry. And Dennis is lying on the family room couch with his phone in his hand and ear buds in his ears.

“Frank! Looks like the Branson Christmas is on its way,” says Lenore. “Thank you for including me.” Poppi turns to her with a huge smile.

“Hey, Good-lookin’.” Everything go well on your errand?”

“Couldn’t be better. Nikki and I got to know each other a bit. Could we get some help with our purchases?”

Aunt Janice goes over to the couch and pokes Dennis in the shoulder. He lifts one ear bud and stares at his mother, who shouts, “Denny! Go help your cousin.”