9 Chapter 9

Sarah paused, obviously considering how much she should share. Zora waited patiently for what juicy tidbit would come from between those succulent lips. Her revelation was delayed by their arrival at the church, the oldest historically black Baptist church in Southport. With a smile, Sarah opened the door, leaving Zora to curse the fact nothing was ever too far away in Southport.

“Zora, I had no idea you were coming home for the Fourth. Your momma didn’t mention anything when I saw her at church Sunday,” Viola Stemmons, the pastor’s wife—and Zora’s former pediatrician—exclaimed.

“I knew she and your father were launching the food truck today, but I expected one of your brothers to bring the food. But I’m glad it’s you. It’s been so long since we have seen each other. You look good.”

Accepting the perfumed hug bestowed on her by the auburn-haired matron, Zora explained it was a last-minute visit and that she was actually heading back to Charlotte tonight.