Welcome to case closed. You're listening to the Block Party by Jamie Day, narrated by Megan Tousing and Susie Jackson.

Let's pick up where we left off last week.

Chapter 31

Suddenly it was Christmas Eve.

The day arrived as if Alex had entered a time warp.

Hadn't she just been making soup with the leftover turkey? Now she was baking a pie to take over to

Emily's. After New Year's, Alex would have a long respite. Valentine's Day

didn't count much.

Until Easter, and then the annual Memorial Day Block Party would come again,

as sure as the Earth spun around the sun.

First, though, she had to survive Christmas. Yes, it was a lovely holiday filled with some of her favorite memories.

Tomorrow her mom and Nick's parents would both come again for another visit and stay a few days.

They'd have another round of big meals, more wine, more desserts,

after which Alex would make her annual Get in Shape pledge.

To her credit, Lettie joined Alex in the kitchen,

where she helped make several pies that came out looking Instagram-worthy.

Alex was relishing the moment of togetherness, until Lettie made an offhand remark about

her drinking.

Is that glass number three, Mom?

She asked.

You better pace yourself.

Alex huffed dismissively.

...