“I’m starting school,” he announced.
She arched her eyebrow, and Morgan could see her struggling to put the pieces together. “At Easton Island’s school?”
“Yep.”
Naomi turned to Morgan. “The boy has moved to Easton Island?”
“He has.”
“Because…”
Morgan clasped her hands. “I don’t think I need to explain why.”
The woman muttered something unintelligible under her breath. “I’m sure I’ll find out soon enough.”
“Have a nice day.” Morgan forced a smile, watching as Naomi spun around and stormed off.
“She’s not very nice,” Tristan said.
“No, she’s not.” Placing a protective arm around his shoulders, she led him toward the gallery. They had almost reached the door when she heard someone calling her name.
Morgan turned to find Priscilla “Prissy” Finkpin, Elizabeth’s sister-in-law, hobbling toward them. “I noticed you talking to Naomi. What did she want?”
“She was being nosy, asking about Tristan.”
“I swear.” Prissy drew an “x” across her chest. “I didn’t tell her.”
“It’s all right. We’re thrilled to have Tristan as part of our family. It’s up to him to decide who he wants to tell,” Morgan said.
“Cuz the kids might not like me,” Tristan said.
Prissy’s brows furrowed. “You mustn’t let one or two rude classmates bother you. Have you met your teacher?”
“Ms. Blanchard.” He nodded.
“She’s an excellent teacher, very personable.” Priscilla pinched her thumb and index fingers together. “Although perhaps a tad strict.”
“She would have to be to teach several grades simultaneously,” Morgan said.
“Are you leaving your grandmother’s gallery?”
“Actually, we were on our way in to see if she has time to have lunch with us.”
“I beat you to it,” Prissy said. “I’ve already invited her to have lunch with me.”
Morgan peered through the window and noticed Elizabeth and Quinn standing at the counter. “Then maybe Quinn would like to have lunch.”
“Or we can all go together.” Priscilla winced, limping slightly as she stepped onto the stoop.
“You’re limping,” Morgan said. “Is your ankle bothering you?”
“My ankle, my arthritis. I’m falling apart. At my age, it seems every day brings a new ache or pain.”
“I’m sorry to hear that.”
Prissy lowered her voice. “I asked your grandmother to have lunch with me because I have something important to discuss with her.”
Morgan detected a hint of worry in her voice and immediately sensed it was something serious. “A problem?”
