Page 68 of Lemon Pound Cake Club

"Maci," Danielle called.

"I was wondering if you were coming."

"I wouldn't miss free food."

Simone laughed.

"Now that's the right attitude."

Camille accepted the charcuterie board from my hands.

"This looks amazing."

"I figured everyone brought something."

"They did."

She placed it on the kitchen island beside two other elaborate boards.

"I swear this neighborhood could cater a wedding."

"We practically do," Simone joked.

Wine poured, plates piled up, and everyone talked at once. For nearly an hour, everything unfolded just as it should.

Camille never let her glass stay empty. Whenever I glanced her way, she was already topping it off.

"So," she announced, lifting her wine with a grin, "before this night gets away from us, I have to tell y'all something."

Simone laughed.

"Here we go."

Camille pointed directly at me.

"If any of you ever want lemons from Maci's tree..." She paused dramatically. "You'd better ask for permission first."

The room burst into laughter. I couldn't help smiling.

"I asked you to knock and ask."

"You practically chewed my head off."

"I most certainly did not."

Before either of us could continue, Nia waved her hand.

"Oh, please."

"What?" Camille asked.

"Don't sit there acting as if you've always been easygoing."

Danielle laughed.

"Exactly."

"When you first moved into Lemon Grove, you were worse than Maci."