16
“PLEASE COME IN, MRS. JEFFERSON,” Ivy said, trying to sound composed after hurriedly picking up after the latest Pixie disaster.
“Call me Carol, everyone does,” the petite, red-haired woman said. She stepped inside, taking in every detail of the house. “What an amazing job you’ve done with this old place. I’ve always loved it.”
Like many singers and actors who had larger-than-life personas, the legendary singer was much smaller than she seemed on screen. Yet she carried herself with regal self-assurance. She clearly took good care of herself, too. Her glowing skin was so remarkable that she appeared not much older than her daughter, who was getting married.
“You’ve been here before?” Ivy asked.
Carol strode into the reception area. “A few charity events over the years. I’ve always
