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around the kitchen with pen and paper. Then I had to modify them, tooboth to make them more healthy and to work in a commercial kitchen. Just doubling or tripling old Arlen's ingredients didn't always work." |
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Looking off into the distance, Abby smiled, recalling early, inedible meals on the trail. "I know. When Arlen tried his first batter cakes" She stopped, her hand flying to her mouth. "I mean, I would imagine your ancestor Arlen . . ." |
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Her voice trailed off as Mike stared. Fortunately Hannah came in carrying coffee and small dishes of ice creama treat Abby loved to make at home, but its texture was never as smooth as the serving before her. |
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After the housekeeper removed a tray of dirty dishes, Abby tried to change the subject. "How long has Hannah been with you?" |
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Mike took a sip of coffee. "As long as I've had this house, nine years. When she interviewed with me, she said she was destined to have this housekeeping job, so I hired her. Of course, her mile-long list of glowing references didn't hurt." |
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He smiled briefly, and Abby relaxed just a little. He found Hannah's special powers amusing, whether or not he believed in them. She remained hopeful that he would simply be amused with her, too. |
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Still, the better course of action was to keep her silence. |
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As she sampled the deliciously cold and sweet ice cream, Mike leaned toward her. "Okay, Abby. |
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