Ever since Harlan left, Forsythia Brown had been wallowing in bed, sick and lost in her thoughts, unconsciously returning to the past.
She remembered when she first heard the news of Gem Atkinson and Norma Ruby's big wedding. Norma had been particularly attentive and considerate towards her.
"Viola, do you know why Gem chose our wedding to fall on your birthday? Gem said that he wanted to remind himself not to forget you, even because of me. Gem said that you were an orphan, and if you lacked his love, you would become even more pitiful. He believed that since he had brought you back, he had the responsibility to take care of you until you grew up... Gem said... you are his most special family member. So, Viola, don't worry, even if Gem ever forgets your birthday, I will remember it because I will spoil you even more than Gem does."
An orphan?
Pitiful?
Responsibility?
Special family member....
