Chapter 31: Lunch - Michael

Two hours later, all the walls are up, roughly bolted together, the roof is in place and I'm busy with my drill and screwdriver. "Thanks. It would have taken me all day by myself."

"My pleasure." Klempner gestures toward where the door stands hinged but unattached. "Want me to get that fixed into place?"

My reply is cut short by the arrival of Mitch, Vicky bundled in her arms. "Ah, there you are." She smiles brightly at Klempner, and I almost see the light switch on in the man. "Am I interrupting? Larry, I've made lunch..."

"Lunch?" Klempner glazes over. "I don't think..."

Mitch shivers then, pulling the wrap tighter around Vicky, tosses her head at the lowering clouds. "I thought something solid inside would be a good idea. You'd be welcome to join us, Michael if you'd like to. I've made plenty. Chicken casserole. Dumplings too."

"Dumplings?" Something like despair flits across Klempner's features, but he injects a ghost of enthusiasm into his tone. "Sounds good."