Ms. Cannon did not look like the type of person one was trifle with. She had a scowl on her face, and yet, as soon as Brandon stopped talking, her expression changed. “Oh, yes, of course!” she exclaimed. “Brandon! How are you?”

“I’m good,” he replied, smiling. “I’m so glad you made it home safely, what with all the rain.”

“Oh, my goodness!” she said, crossing her arms. “It was pouring! But, yes, I’m home now. I’m so glad you all happened by. I bet that was terrifying, Julia, hearing that glass break.”

“It was really scary, Mama,” Julia agreed.

Aaron was done with the door now and he entered...