Nellie arrives at the restaurant. Maureen is already seated, and Nellie joins her, offering a hug as well as an introduction. Maureen begins to ask Nellie about being from Florida, but Nellie quickly changes the subject, asking about Richard and his childhood. Their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of Richard, who is tense when he hears that Nellie has asked about his “deep, dark secrets” (130). He offers Nellie a kiss, letting her begin to think he has forgiven her, but then sits beside Maureen. Richards makes her more uncomfortable by asking for the wine list and adding that he’s never known Nellie to turn down a drink.

Nellie spends most of the meal listening to the two of them talk, feeling that she has nothing to contribute to the conversation. Maureen eventually asks Nellie why she chose to teach preschool. When Nellie replies that she’s always loved children, Richard asks Maureen if she’s ready to be an aunt. After they’ve finished their meal, Nellie remembers the gift she bought for Maureen: a purple and blue glass beaded necklace. Nellie offers it to Maureen in hopes she will wear it at the wedding. Richard asked Nellie to make Maureen her maid of honor and she agreed, although Nellie would have preferred

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