Page 18 of Lemon Pound Cake Club

Miss Evelyn laughed.

“I raised none of y’all, and somehow all of y’all act like cousins.”

“We practically are,” Tasha said.

Miss Evelyn reached into her basket, took out three lemons, and gave one to me.

“Our trees always give us more than we need.”

The lemons felt cool in my hand. Its scent was fresh, clean, and somehow comforting.

“They’re beautiful.”

“They’re meant to be shared.”

Before I could say anything, another voice called out from across the yard.

“I knew I’d find everybody over here.”

Camille walked over to us with a large woven tote slung over one shoulder.

She looked polished in a cream sundress and flat sandals, her dark curls pulled back in a low ponytail. The women hugged her as if they did it every day.

“Maci,” Camille said warmly, “I was hoping I’d catch you.”

“I’ve been getting the neighborhood tour.”

“I can see that.”

She looked around at everyone, then turned back to me.

“I hope these ladies haven’t scared you off.”

“Not yet.”

“Good.”

She reached into her tote and handed me a slim white envelope. Inside was a pretty card decorated with tiny gold lemons.

Welcome to Lemon Grove Estates.

Underneath, there was a handwritten note.

We’re so happy you’re here. We can’t wait to officially welcome you next Thursday.

At the bottom, someone had signed it simply.

The Lemon Pound Cake Club

I traced the elegant lettering with my thumb.

“It’s beautiful.”

“It started as a welcome tradition years ago,” Camille explained. “Every woman who moves into the neighborhood receives one.”

“Think of it as your official invitation,” Tasha added.

“No pressure,” Jade said. “But don’t skip it.”