Page 10 of Lemon Pound Cake Club

She stepped inside, followed by the younger woman.

“This is my niece, Laila. She’ll be assisting me today while we get everything organized.”

Laila smiled.

“Nice to meet you.”

“You too.”

Zaire appeared behind me.

“Bernice.”

“Mr. Graham.”

They greeted each other like people who had met before.

I looked between them.

“How long have you two been planning my life?” Zaire placed a hand against his chest.

“Yooo, that sounded so dramatic.”

“It was meant to.”

Bernice’s smile deepened slightly.

“Mr. Graham wanted the transition to be as smooth as possible.”

“So, he says.”

Bernice opened her portfolio.

“I suggest we start with the kitchen, main bedroom, and linen closets since families usually need those areas right away. After we unpack everything, we can adjust things to fit your preferences.”

She mentioned my preferences, and hearing that should have made me feel in control. But when I saw the mountain of boxes behind me, I almost hugged her.

“That sounds perfect.”

“Good. We’ll start upstairs.”

She turned toward the staircase but stopped. She looked up at the second floor, then back at me.

Her expression changed for a moment. It could have been recognition or maybe concern. I wasn’t sure.

“Is everything okay?” I asked.

“Of course.”

She replied a little too quickly and tucked the portfolio under her arm.

“This is just a beautiful home.”

I waited quietly, but she didn’t say anything else. Laila followed her up the stairs, and I listened until their footsteps faded upstairs.

Zaire went back to the kitchen, and I stayed by the front door. Not long after, a black SUV slowed down in front of our house.

The driver lifted one hand from the wheel and waved. Without thinking, I waved back.