Chapter 1228

• Sadie gives me a weak but appreciative smile. I know she's excited about the opportunity but she tends to doubt herself. Frank has the most work ethic but Sadie is by far my brightest child. She's always gotten all honors in advanced classes. I think work ethic is far more valuable than grades but Sadie will make it. I had terrible grades growing up but I made something of myself anyway. She's tight with Frank so I'm hoping some of that drive rubs off on her. None of my kids are lazy and that's the important thing.
• Before I can get to the top of the stairs I feel a tap on my shoulder. I turn around and see flour-covered Florence standing a couple of stairs beneath me. Her lips form into a small frown and her eyes are filled with worry. She waits until we're alone to talk about something serious.
• "Mom called today," my daughter says quietly and leans closer. "She sounds better I guess."