(Rebecca's POV)
They arrive at 2:47.
I don't see them coming. I'm watching Jack lower a leaf into the jar so the pond skater has somewhere to stand.
Then I hear Joanna's voice.
Bright. Carrying. Aimed at someone three tables over but pitched to reach the whole lawn.
I look up.
Joanna and Ivy are walking through the garden gate. Both in pastels. Both holding champagne flutes they didn't get here.
Lisa's garden parties are open-house by tradition. Anyone can come. No invitations required.
Joanna has never let tradition stop her from showing up where she can do damage.
They find me at the pond.
Joanna's eyes sweep the scene — me on my knees, Jack at my feet, the jar, the net, the audience scattered across the lawn. Her gaze lands on the cousin three tables away and stays there.
I k
