Corina smiles and nods. I wonder if Vera would be as friendly if she knew who Corina is and why she is here. I have a feeling she would make those pancakes with a huge dose of sand instead of flour.

Ignoring the entire situation and my conflicting feelings that are souring my breakfast, I make quick work of it. After I’m done, I wipe my mouth and stand up. Colin and Rob note the cue and straighten it. “Are you done?” I say to Corina. “We need to go.”

She looks like she's about to throw a retort, but stuffs the rest of her food and chugs it down...