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Page 188
course. And what I don't really know, I pretend to. Things get interesting when people think they've no secrets from you."
"But doesn't anyone get angry? Call you a witch, or threaten punishment?"
Hannah frowned sympathetically. "Is that how you've been treated? Poor Abby. No, I'm called eccentric but left alone."
Abby managed a nervous smile. "Do I have any secrets from you?"
"Oh, yes, dear. Many. You're not nearly as readable as most people, since you and I seem to share a bunch of talents. I'd enjoy discussing them, but right now I've got to start dinner."
She stood and bustled away, leaving Abby wishing that she had the nerve to confide in Hannah, to ask for help. Maybe Hannah could give focus to the peril she anticipated.

Despite her uneasiness, Abby came downstairs later prepared for a gala, if intimate, party. She wore her prettiest long, floral dress, and she had pulled her hair back into a neat bun. She had even borrowed a little makeup from Hannah to emphasize her eyes and lips. Finding the effect pleasing herself, she was particularly gratified by Mike's appreciative stare that quickly turned into a scowl. What had she done to anger him?
The dining room had been decorated with flowers. Handsome china and crystal were set out in festive array. But successful parties required convivial people.
Ruth set the tone of the evening when she

 
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