Sofia

"I ran into Mrs. Rachel again at the market," my mother said, dabbing the corner of her mouth with a linen napkin. "She mentioned that the country club has an opening in June of next year. Apparently, a couple canceled their deposit."

My father nodded, cutting a precise square of meat. "June is a good month, not too hot. We wouldn't want the guests sweating in their suits."

"Exactly," my mother agreed, turning her bright, expectant gaze on me. "And June means peonies are in season, ...