Yellow Ceramic Mug and Red Silk Scarf in a Red Buick

be too much for one person.”

Julian did not look up from his bread, keeping his eyes fixed on the crust. He spread a thick layer of butter with his knife, his movements slow and deliberate.

“I manage the stairs just fine, Nicole,” I said, keeping my hands steady as I set the tureen down on the sideboard. “I have lived in this house for forty years, and continue reading …