Chapter 21Janet
December 25th, 2014
The Crane Family Farm
Mel opened the door to find Barb standing there and offered by way of greeting, “Come on in! Glad you could make it.” I didn’t think she saw me standing off to one side.
“I hope it’s okay;” Barb asked her, “I brought a friend?”
She stepped aside and I moved into view. Mel’s pleased expression tightened just a little.
“If it’s going to be a problem,” I began.
“No, no; no problem for me anyway.” Her smile spread again and I felt a little relief.
She stepped aside so we could enter and she took our jackets.
“I know where the kitchen is,” Barb told her. “We come bearing gifts of food and wine.” She wandered away leaving me standing there with my boss.
“I apologize,” I stated quietly. “I knew this would be awkward for you.”
“N
