Aunt Sophie Maxx answered her front door with a glowing smile and red cheeks. She wore a sweater, apron, and light blue bunny slippers that had seen better days. Ruby-colored reading glasses hung on the end of her nose. She welcomed her nephew and Avery inside after introductions, hugging them both. She kissed Judd’s left cheek and patted his back. Avery noticed the aunt and nephew had the same blue eyes. He imagined Sophie at one time sported a long mane of blonde hair. Now her beautiful grey-silver hair was pulled into a bun at the back of her head.
The massive house smelled of cinnamon, honey, and baked bread. A radio played a Bing Crosby hit. Avery observed the house’s rooms. They were gaudy, over-decorated with knickknacks and too much furniture, a walk into 1963. He felt as if he ha
