Janet’s latest boyfriend Stevie was nothing like Jilly’s Matt — mean, surly, and short-tempered. I didn’t know how Janet put up with him, but it was her choice. As long as he made her happy, I’d tolerate him. Janet was my middle daughter. We rarely saw eye to eye, but I missed her. They were coming for a visit in August, and after Jilly and Matt’s long stay, the house felt empty. They arrived late Friday evening and greeted me warmly. Janet was sweeter than usual. I planned to keep my distance from Stevie — no special bonding like I’d had with Matt. The next afternoon, Janet went out with friends. I headed to the kitchen for wine and found Stevie there. “Good afternoon, Ms. Trotter,” he said, more words than usual. “I’m glad we have time alone. I want us to get along. Janet means everything to me.” I admitted I found him cold. Stevie chuckled, his eyes sliding over my body. “That’s because after meeting you and hearing everything Janet said about you, I got a serious woody. I
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