Forty Thousand Dollars and the Deed to Maple Avenue Bakery

on the door says Vance since nineteen fifty-two, Clara.”

“The sign does not pay the utility bills,” Clara said. “We are behind on the gas.”

I picked up the heavy brass flour sifter from the shelf, its handle cool and familiar. “Something is not right with these older books, Clara.”

“We have to protect what Beatrice left us,” Clara said. “Even if it means continue reading …