Page 109 of Lemon Pound Cake Club

"I'll keep everyone together."

She looked relieved.

"Thank you."

The officer said visiting time was almost over.

Camille gripped the phone tighter.

"When you see the girls, tell them I love them."

"I will."

"And tell them," Fresh tears spilled down her cheeks. "I would never harm one of my own."

Before I could answer, the officer put a gentle hand on her shoulder. Camille stood up.

"So you'll come back?"

I offered a soft smile.

"If you need me."

She nodded.

"I do."

She walked out through the steel door. I stayed in my seat until everyone else was gone. Then I hung up the phone.

◆◆◆

That evening, the women came to my house. We sat around my dining table, speaking in low voices. Danielle was the first to look at me.

"How is she?"

"She's scared."

Simone lowered her eyes.

"I can't stop thinking about her sitting in there alone."

Jade sighed.

"I still don't know what to believe."

No one spoke up for Camille, but no one blamed her, either. Everyone seemed torn between loyalty and doubt. I folded my hands on the table.

"There was something Camille asked me to do."

They looked at me.

"She wants me to lead the Lemon Pound Cake Club until she comes home."

Danielle smiled through tears.

"That sounds like Camille."

"It does."