Bonds and Barricades

A large pot of thick, sweet fruit preserve simmered until it turned soft and fragrant. Diane sprinkled in a handful of fine white sugar, stirred it well, then scooped up a spoonful for a taste—pure happiness filled her mouth instantly.

Seeing that Sadie and Toby both loved the slow-cooked sweet jam, Diane smiled and said, "I'll make another big batch tonight. I won't use it as filling; I'll just l