Page 45 of Homecoming

“We most certainly will not be doing that,” Dan said.

“Poor choice of words in light of current events,” Kara said as Kendra led them inside.

“Nah, it was funny,” Kendra said.

“Oh, Ken, it’s gorgeous.” Kara had seen it through photos and FaceTime, but none of that had done justice to her sister’s talent for putting together a warm, cozy space. “I love it all, but the fireplace is incredible.”

The stonework around the fireplace extended all the way to the ceiling, making it the focal point of the large, open-concept first floor.

“Come see the kitchen. It’s my favorite part.”

The gourmet kitchen ran the length of the far wall and was fronted by the largest island Kara had ever seen. “It’s stunning. I can see why it’s your favorite part.”

“Can you design and decorate a house for us?” Dan asked. “When we’re ready, that is.”

“I’d love to,” Kendra said, seeming pleased by the request.

“It’s her favorite thing,” Luna said. “She’s obsessed with decorating.”

“You and your sister are my favorite things,” Kendra said. “I’m obsessed with raising you to be decent human beings, which is harder than it seems.”

“Kids are notthings, Mother,” Luna replied.

“We’re all things occupying space in the universe,” Kendra said. “God save me from the preteen know-it-all.”

“Great says you were just like me at my age,” Luna said.

“Great?” Dan asked.

“That’s what they call Bertha,” Kendra said.

“Oh, I love that. It’s so fitting.”

“Isn’t it? She must be thrilled to have you guys staying with her.”

“She is.” Kara dipped a carrot stick in the bowl of ranch dressing that Kendra had put out for her, knowing how much she loved it. “She’s got a crush on my husband.”

“I’ve got one on her, too, so that works out well,” Dan said.

“She sings your praises because you’ve made our Kara so happy.”

Dan smiled at Kara. “Works both ways. She saved me from myself.”

“I do that every day. It’s a big job.”

Kendra laughed as she opened a Sam Adams for Dan and put a glass of ice water in front of Kara. “I wasn’t sure what to expect with your fancy reputation preceding you.”

“No way. You’ve gotten to know me through FaceTime and stuff.”

“It’s not the same as being in person.”

“No, it isn’t,” Dan said. “I’m glad we finally got to fix that, even if the reason we’re here isn’t the greatest.”

After they finished setting the table, the girls surrounded Kara once again. When she noticed Aurora looking at her pregnant belly, Kara said, “You want to feel the baby? He or she is usually busy this time of day.”

“Can I?”

“Of course. Put your hand right here.” Kara laid the child’s hand flat against the right side, where she usually felt the strongest kicks. “It might take a second.”

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