Petals, Pride & Persuasion: Jane Austen in California Story Collection: Jane Austen in California

By Reina M. Williams

Take an Austenesque trip to California! Love finds the residents of Rancho Valle, a small Sonoma County town where hearts are as gold as the California hills, and people care for each other--with a little gossip from the town vines and meddling from the Firehouse Diner's Roosters to help things along.
These four stories are short, heartwarming, and just right for a cozy afternoon with your favorite beverage--and one of the recipes from Rancho Valle, like Mrs. Bates's Peach Cobbler. 

This Jane Austen in California collection includes:
Petals: A Short Story of Pride and Prejudice
Dear Cate: A Novella of Persuasion
Chance for Love: A Novella of Pride and Prejudice
Loving Lucky: A Novella of Matchmaking
Six Recipes from Rancho Valle 
370 pages of kisses-only romance suitable for ages 13 to 113!

Content advisory: discussions of grief; some self-criticism/grappling with inner critc by characters

 

Praise for the stories of Rancho Valle:

 

"Readers who like small-town stories should really enjoy this. There is a strong cast of a number of secondary characters and plenty of that lovely small town/old fashioned feel to this story. Add in that it's exceedingly sweet - one small, non-descriptive kiss at the very end to seal the happy ending - and I feel this is a good story for readers of all ages. This is the sort of story I would happily recommend to my mum or grandma, or even a teenage reader."

~Long and Short Reviews

"Such a sweet story. You'll just fall in love with this Cate character. Really a lovely read."
~Megan, reader

"A contemporary romance,short, sweet and engaging.
Bennet Ray is home to save her grandmothers business from the arrogant Ryan Stone who is expanding his bike-store into their little books-and toys-store. An engaging backstory and a flowery language made this a worthwhile read. Recommend"
~Elin, reader

• Language: English
• Publisher: Rickrack Books
• Release date: Feb 12, 2018
• ISBN: 9781386690511

Book preview

Petals, Pride, and Persuasion

A Jane Austen in California Story Collection

Reina M. Williams

This is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to places, establishments, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental and the work of the author’s imagination.

Copyright © Reina M. Williams 2021

rickrackbooks.com

Cover design via Canva.com

All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced in any format without permission from the author.

First Edition/December 2018

Second Edition/April 2021

Dear Reader,

Welcome to Rancho Valle, a small Sonoma County town with a heart as gold as the California hills! I’ve wanted to write a modern version of a Jane Austen country village for a while now, and I hope Rancho Valle brings you cozy feelings in a series of quick reads. This special ebook brings together the four stories of Rancho Valle in one volume, for a tea cake of a Jane Austen inspired confection. Let’s settle in a comfy seat and enjoy!

A note: Though I was inspired by the city of Sonoma and other Sonoma County locales, Rancho Valle is entirely fictional. I hope you like visiting as much as I’ve had fun writing about a place where people care for and love each other. My thanks to all those who have helped me along the way, and to you, dear reader, for continuing to open the pages of a book.

Hugs,

Reina

Dedicated to the men who inspired the Roosters: Alvin H. Seevers, Carl W. Allen, Mr. Pearl, Grandpa Steve, Uncle Jim, and Grandpa Lew—you didn’t know each other, but you all inspired me. And thanks to Jane Austen for her enduring stories; to the Janeites who share their enthusiasm; Megan and Cheryl for their insightful beta reading; Taryn for the helpful edits; Jessica and Marik; the ladies of Holy Cross Episcopal Church, and teacher extraordinaire Lorrie McCoin, for sharing some of their stories; and my dentist, Curtis K. Miyahara, for his permission to use his family name—he is a kind soul. And, of course, all thanks to you, dear reader, for reading this book.

Table of Contents

Petals

A Short Story of Pride and Prejudice

Dear Cate

A Story of Persuasion

Chance for Love

A Story of Pride and Prejudice

Loving Lucky

A Story of Matchmaking

Recipes from Rancho Valle

Afterword

Petals

A Short Story of Pride and Prejudice

Chapter One

BENNET STOPPED THE old swing, letting her flip-flops bend in the packed dirt. The swing under the spreading oak tree in Grandma and Grandpa’s backyard had been a favorite place of hers, but it was smaller than she’d recalled. She glanced around at what had been her home for as long as she could remember, save the last seven years.

The wide, soft lawn, the colorful rosebushes along the fence, the old oak tree by the corner of the fence line, under which she gripped the rope of the swing, and Grandma’s kitchen garden opposite. She’d had big dreams here, of traveling the world, being in a famous orchestra, having a doting husband and children, dreams she’d been chasing, dreams that were fading fast in the reality of her life. She swayed in the swing. Inhaling the sweet fragrances around her, she stilled. Family and feeling had brought her back. And the magic was still here—her moss-covered fairy ring by the tree, petals falling like snowflakes, and the love of the townspeople for this place, and each other.

Peanut! Grandma called.

Bennet smiled at Grandma’s old endearment, though her heart hurt that Grandpa wasn’t strolling out with Grandma, like they’d always done. Out here, Grandma.

Grandma’s gait was slower than it used to be, a little lopsided from her stroke a few months before. Her hair was more silver now than salt and pepper, but her warm, calm smile was the same. She sat on the padded wooden bench, also under the shade of the oak, and patted the spot next to her.

Bennet plopped down. Are you sure you don’t mind me moving back? She felt like she’d forced herself on Grandma. But she couldn’t stay away knowing Grandma needed her. She shouldn’t keep working like she had, running the toy store single-handed. That stress had contributed to her stroke.

You know I’m tickled that you’re here. And that you’ll be starting at the store next week. I’m so proud of you. I’m only sorry you felt you had to give up your music.

Thanks, Grandma. I should’ve come home sooner. Bennet tucked her long hair behind her ears and leaned her head on Grandma’s shoulder. Grandma still owned Rays’ Toy and Book Shop on Main Street in downtown Rancho Valle. The shop had weathered hard times recently, and Grandma’d had to come out of retirement to manage the shop again. With Bennet’s minor in business, and the time she’d worked at the store during high school, she was qualified. But her heart was with her music, and she’d left her pursuit of it, and her travels, behind.

She stretched her arms out then settled them on her lap. Coming back was the right thing to do. She loved her grandparents more than music. They’d given her everything they could.

We’re having everyone over for dinner tonight.

Bennet grinned. Everyone could mean the whole neighborhood. Hal coming?

Yes, and stop asking him to marry you. He’s old enough to be your grandpa. Grandma leaned into her, jostling her in a tease.

Bennet giggled. He’ll never say yes. It’s our joke. Hal, one of Grandpa’s friends, known as the Roosters at the Firehouse Diner where they ate lunch almost every day, was one of Bennet’s oldest friends too. He’d been like another grandpa to her, thank goodness, since both her parents had left her. She bit the inside of her lip. Bennet had first asked Hal to marry her when she was five, and it had become a ritual with them.

There’ll be some young folks too—Cate, Joe’s grandkids, and maybe Darcy.

Bennet shifted and sat taller. She stared at the yard, where she and most of those kids had once played together. Cate and Darcy were friends. Ryan, Joe’s oldest and only grandson, had been a thorn in her side in the school band. She’d babysat his sisters, Louisa and Isabella, who she’d encouraged to pester their older brother. Bennet shook her head, her mouth relaxed, still amused by memories of her childhood friends.

She wasn’t sure her smile would hold if Ryan remained the same cold, distant guy he’d been in high school. He was older than she, Cate, Darcy, Nick, and their crowd by two years and he’d let them know it. Ryan’s late mother had thought he could do no wrong, but if Bennet didn’t love Ryan’s Grandpa Joe so much, she’d have belted Ryan lots of times. Of course, she’d outgrown such childish outbursts. Maybe Ryan had mellowed too. Maybe he’d become more of the Ryan she’d looked up to in elementary school—protective, smart, even kind—rather than the arrogant teen who’d antagonized her during their high school years.

You know I like you old folks. Bennet pushed her arm into Grandma’s. She sounded teasing, but they both knew she meant it. Bennet had always been more comfortable around children and older people.

I like to see you enjoying yourself. She meant with people Bennet’s own age. Grandma was a worrier, and she’d spent enough worry on Bennet.

I’ll have a great time. Ray dinners are the stuff of legend, right?

Right again, peanut. She tweaked Bennet’s nose and stood, her knees bent.

Bennet hopped up, ready to assist her. Grandma waved her hand.

Just a bit stiff. She stood up all the way and patted her old-fashioned updo. Can’t sit too long.

We’ll take walks every day.

Darn tootin’.

Bennet smiled. Grandma and her funny expressions. They linked arms and strolled into the house. This was home. But she’d left the first chance she’d gotten, running toward her dreams, running away from the hurt. Could she stay this time and face the painful old tune?

BENNET SET OUT PLATTERS of food while Grandma double-checked the layout of the plates, glasses, silverware, and napkins on the sideboard. All the dining chairs were pushed back from the large pecan table, some placed in the living room for extra seating. For those not near the oversized coffee table, small wooden tables were set out, dotting the room already full of overstuffed sofas and chairs covered in Grandma’s favorite blue and a coordinating floral print. Bennet had organized the dining room earlier, but Grandma liked to be sure it was ship-shape, as she had during her time in the Navy.

All in order, swabbie. Grandma saluted her and she returned the gesture.

A colorful array filled the table: chopped vegetable salad, succotash, a spiral ham, pineapple slices, fruit salad, Grandma’s special confetti rice, biscuits, and glistening bowls of honey, jam, and chutney. The guests were bringing desserts and Hal always arrived with beer and wine.

Grandma clapped her hands together, her signal that she was satisfied. It’s so much easier with you here, Bennet.

It’s easy being here. The hollow in her throat disagreed, but it was only a small empty place compared to the sure warmth in her limbs she got from being here with Grandma, being able to help after all she and Grandpa had done for her.

I spoke to your dad earlier.

The old, painful tune of her parents—that wasn’t an easy subject. More like awkward and unpleasant, a botched audition. How are he and Sarah? She didn’t mind that her dad had remarried as soon as he could. What she minded was that he’d left his six-year-old daughter to be raised by his parents so he could start over with Sarah. But Bennet was glad in a way, because she couldn’t have found a better family than Grandma, Grandpa, and their friends in Rancho Valle.

Fine. They send their love. Sarah said you should visit. They haven’t seen you since your college graduation.

Three years and counting. And she hadn’t invited them—Grandma had. They could’ve come here for Christmas.

You know how busy your father is.

You’re his mother. He can’t make time to see you?

Grandma’s face sagged.

Bennet touched Grandma’s shoulder. I’m sure he wants to... You’re right, he’s just so busy. Once again, Grandma was hurt because of Bennet’s pain over her parents.

Grandma smiled, forced cheerfulness. She walked to the sideboard to straighten the already-orderly napkins. Now you’re working at the store, they want to fly me out to Denver. That’ll be nice, won’t it?

Bennet gripped her hands together. Yes. I’m glad. You and Grandpa always talked about seeing the country.

Instead, they’d raised Bennet, and worked to keep the store going through all the economic downturns when they could’ve sold if only Bennet’s parents hadn’t dumped her on them. Not that Grandma and Grandpa ever showed a morsel of resentment. Unlike her parents, who wished Bennet had never been born. At least that’s what her mother had said.

Bennet’s hands clenched, her nails digging into her skin. She closed her eyes a moment. The scent of Grandma’s perfume, Shalimar, and the food eased the tightness in her throat.

The doorbell rang.

Where’s my favorite girl? Hal’s booming voice entered just before he did. His silver hair gleamed, contrasting his tanned skin, and his blue eyes twinkled with mischief, made bluer by a light blue dress shirt above neatly pressed slacks and polished driving loafers. As mayor of their little Sonoma County town, Hal fit the role with polished ease.

She smiled and greeted him with a bear hug and a kiss on the cheek. His spicy scent reminded her of nights with family and friends, hot cocoa and molasses cookies all around. He returned her hug with a warm one of his own.

He held her at arm’s length. Now then, Miss Bennet, you’re a sight. Prettier than ever.

Well, then, marry me. Bennet smiled.

I’ll see you married, missy, but it won’t be to a crusty old bachelor like me. Hal winked and touched the dimple in her cheek that she got when she smiled.

You’re not crusty, Mr. Mayor. She laughed, releasing the lingering tension.

Hal squeezed her hands before letting go to hug Grandma.

Watch it there, Hal, Grandma said in a tease. Don’t get too familiar.

You keep a man on his mark, Alma. Hal smiled. He held up a cloth bag with his usual contribution of local wine and beer. He liked wine, but not wineries trying to encroach on their town. I’ll get this to the kitchen. Anything else need doing?

No, thanks. Bennet and I have it in order.

Hal saluted Grandma and winked at Bennet. With his purposeful stride, he walked through the dining room door to the kitchen.

Hello, Joe Miyahara and his wife, Bess, called from the front hall. We’re here with the kids.

Joe hadn’t changed in years. He’d been the principal at Bennet’s elementary school, a dignified, friendly man with salt and pepper hair and a mellow smile. Bess, short and with similar hair and features to Joe, was a tiny powerhouse. She and Joe squeezed her hands, their version of a hug. She kissed each of them on the cheek.

Bess continued to hold her hand. So glad to see you, Bennet. You’re always a help to Alma. Do you remember Louisa, Isabella, and Ryan? Bess motioned to two tall and willowy young women, their long black hair sleek over high cheekbones. Ryan, slightly taller than his younger twin sisters, his black hair cut short, flashed a brief, wary smile. He had a lot of his father in him, from the little Bennet remembered of Darien Stone. Mr. Stone had abandoned his family a couple of years after Bennet’s parents had left her. Like Bennet, the three Stone siblings had been raised in their grandparents’ home. Bennet nodded to the three and Louisa and Bella half-waved at her.

Ryan made no such friendly gesture. He frowned and walked to the bay window in the living room, reclining his lean frame against the wall. He’d probably stay there awhile, if he was still as stand-offish as he used to be.

He’d become an attractive man, not the gangly kid Bennet remembered. But the tense hostility wafting off him took away the appeal of his even, chiseled features, dark eyes and hair, and toned physique.

The gang’s all here, Reverend Bennet Smith said. He bustled in with his wife, Mary. Rev. Smith had helped deliver Bennet—in gratitude, her mother had named her for the man. His wire-rimmed spectacles and white hair spoke of his scholarly bent and years of service. His wife, by contrast, was a fluttery brunette whose nerves sometimes kept her abed, even during their yearly mission treks. Mary flitted from person to person, her long 1970s style gauze skirt swirling around her, while Rev. Smith stopped to grasp Bennet’s hands in his. Glad you’re home, m’dear. The gentle pressure of his pale, ink-stained hands caused her throat to tighten again, as at Grandpa’s funeral.

She patted his hand, fighting the tears that threatened. He’d also been the one to accompany her and Grandpa to identify her mother’s body—a suicide. She turned her head away.

She spotted Cate Elliot, who lived in the snug cottage behind the Miyaharas’ house, slipping into the room. Rev. Smith released her hands, said hello to Cate, and moved away to greet the others.

Cate hugged her tightly. We’ve missed you, Snow. From childhood, Cate had been the organizer, the storyteller, mostly tales of knights, princesses, and fairies. She’d dubbed Bennet Snow White on account of her long black hair, porcelain skin tone, and supposedly sweet disposition.

Me too, Tink Two. Where’s Tink One? Best friends Cate and Darcy had been two Tinkerbells, though over the years Cate’s hair had darkened to a light golden brown.

Working at the diner, of course. Cate shook her head. Maybe I should’ve named her Cinderella instead.

We’re all too old for fairy tales now.

Cate frowned.

Bennet winked. But never too old for magic.

Cate gave her another hug. Hugs continued all around. Ryan still stood at the window. Why’d he show up if he was just going to stand in the corner like a broken lamp? She clenched her jaw briefly. He made her more irritated than anyone could. His kindness to her in elementary school had meant a lot to her, and then he’d become distant, even mean. She wanted to reconnect with the people here... She turned from him. Connecting with Ryan was not part of her plans. Desserts were placed on the table and chatter filled the space.

Bennet, Grandma whispered as everyone moved into the living room, why don’t you ask Ryan what he’d like to drink?

So she had to be the family ambassador, sent to placate the difficult guest. She nodded and walked to Ryan.

Would you like something to drink?

Ryan turned to her and flashed another wary smile. Bennet tilted her head. He really was handsome. She glanced away. Getting drawn in by a brief smile wasn’t happening. She’d made that mistake in high school, when he used to make fun of her enthusiasm for what she called everyday magic.

How about a Red Tail Ale? he said. Hal usually brings some.

I’ll check the kitchen. Bennet turned and strode toward the kitchen to avoid staring at Ryan. Her neck heated. He still bothered her. If he hadn’t changed since high school, she didn’t want to know him. Only a cynical, arrogant person would mock someone just because they found life amazing and full of magic.

I’ll come with you. His footsteps followed hers.

Once in the kitchen, she pulled open the fridge. Yep. She grabbed a cold bottle.

Ryan got a glass from the cabinet above the sink and took the bottle from her. Thanks.

Sure. Bennet ran her hand along the cool tile counter.

So, you’re home for good?

As long as I’m needed. Bennet stilled. I hear you own the bike shop next to my grandparents’ store?

His frown had returned. Yes. Your grandma still write you those long letters? Ryan’s attention was intense.

Bennet set out more glasses and checked the supply of ice. How’d you know?

My grandma. Those two are always talking, especially when they meet to watch hockey.

Guess you hear plenty too. Bennet glanced at him, curious why he was suddenly being friendly, for him.

He shrugged. He poured the beer into the glass and set the bottle into the recycling bin by the back door. He stood in front of her, beer in hand. I’m going to expand the bike shop.

Glad you’re doing that well.

Thanks. It’d save you all money to move into a smaller space elsewhere.

Bennet tensed, her back tightened. What?

It’s a win-win. I expand into your space, you save money by moving to a smaller location.

Bennet crossed her arms. So that’s why he’d been nice for all of two minutes. There aren’t any spaces available downtown, for one thing. And who says we need to save money? Her voice was loud and shrill.

He shrugged again. No need to get upset. Just a suggestion. His tone was calm, too calm.

I’m not upset, Bennet said to his back as he strolled into the hall. She dropped her hands, clenching and unclenching them. He’d gotten to her. He’d been Mr. Cool and she’d sounded like a dissonant chord.

Hey. Cate walked in, toward the fridge. She stopped when she glanced at Bennet. You okay?

Yeah, just...

Cate looked behind her. Ryan being...Ryan?

Guess so.

Cate smiled and shook her head. He always could get to you. I’ve never seen you as mad, or hurt, as that time he criticized your playing and said you weren’t good enough to make it professionally. Just ignore him. I’m grabbing an ale for Hal.

The heat in her neck crept onto her face. That was one of those times she’d wanted to belt Ryan. Instead, she’d fumed, with a bright smile, pretended to ignore him, and then had a good cry in the girl’s bathroom. Ryan seemed to know exactly how to hurt her most. Anyone else want anything? And you?

Two cherry colas, but I can get them. Cate still reminded her of Tinkerbell, but with darker hair. She and her best friend, Darcy, had been a pair all through high school. At almost five-seven, Bennet had felt like a giant in comparison, but Cate used to say she was like Snow White, which had made Bennet feel better. It had seemed better as a girl to be a princess rather than a fairy, but now Bennet wanted magic. She’d traveled the world looking for it, and had some amazing experiences, but nowhere had more magic than home.

I’ll get glasses.

Cate placed two colas on the counter. Bennet clinked ice into two tall glasses and poured out the bubbly sodas.

What about you, Bennet?

I’ll stick with water. She might have a glass of wine later, but probably not. She needed to stay clear-headed and decide what to do about Ryan. He didn’t give up easily. She’d spent four years at college, and the last three years traveling, focused on her music and finding new experiences. It would take her awhile to get up to speed on the business. Seemed Ryan wouldn’t give her that time. She’d have to learn faster.

How’ve you been? Cate asked as they took the drinks to the living room.

Fine, thanks. She wasn’t fine, but she needed time to ponder what to do. Making considered decisions wasn’t her strongest forte; she tended to improvise. What about you?

The usual. Still looking for a teaching job. Staying busy volunteering and working at the diner.

They’d stayed in touch via email over the years, so there wasn’t much new to share. Cate had been an art teacher, but had been laid off.

We’d still like you to come to the store to do some art events.

Thanks. I’ve been working on some ideas. I’ll email you the plans when I have them ready.

Great. Bennet smiled at the lively group. Everyone sat or stood, talking and laughing. Except Ryan. He stood apart, sipping his beer, watching the others. Too often Grandma, like a hunter studying how best to attack his prey.

Bennet’s smile clenched.

Bennet, why don’t you show everyone to the food, Grandma asked.

Bennet stood by the sideboard, ushering everyone, which was unnecessary. They’d all been coming here for as long as she could remember. But Grandma had assigned Bennet the duty when she was a little girl, and it’d stuck through the years.

Ryan ambled up last. Everyone else was already settled in the living room.

Doesn’t it bug you, always being last? Ryan’s voice was still calm, offhand.

But his comment stung, as if he’d ripped a bandage off too soon and too slowly.

You’re last too, looks like.

Looks are deceiving. I win when it counts.

Bennet picked up a plate. She pushed her lips together to prevent a snappish comment from bursting out. Cate was right. He could still get to her, because she let him. She plopped food onto her plate and turned, almost bumping into Ryan. He smiled, satisfied, as if he’d already won.

She grabbed silverware and a napkin. He hadn’t won. There was nothing he could do. Was there? She’d spend the night with the store’s books and business plan and find out.

She plastered on a smile and glanced at him as he carefully set ham and all the fixings on his plate in neat piles. Her plate looked like an abstract painting while his was a color-by-numbers, everything placed precisely.

He returned her study for a moment. You haven’t changed. He smirked.

Neither have you. Bennet turned with a flounce and tromped into the living room. Her throat felt as if steam could shoot out of it at any moment.

Saved you a spot, Hal said, patting the padded bench near his chair. Ryan, you too.

Bennet scowled and studied her plate. She had to be nice for Grandma’s sake, and the Miyaharas. How people as nice as Joe and Bess could have a grandson like Ryan...

He sat next to her. Their shoulders and legs strained not to touch. Bennet could feel the tension in her muscles, and sensed the same in Ryan’s as he sat unnaturally rigid. Or maybe he just was that rigid.

How was your bike trip, Ryan? Hal, like the rest of the Roosters, knew what everyone was up to.

Great. Monday we’re hiking near the creek west of town.

You should take Bennet. She’s always wanted to do that.

You’re welcome to join us, if you think you can manage.

The way he said it, Bennet heard a challenge. Sure, sounds fun. She’d show him. She’d hiked all over California, the East Coast, Europe, and Japan. And she could use the time to press him about what he was up to, once she was armed with more facts and figures.

We meet at the bike shop at 8:30.

I’ll be there. There she’d gone again, agreeing to something without thinking it through.

Everyone ate and chatted. Except Ryan. He ate, but he didn’t say another word as she and Hal talked. Mostly Hal did the talking. He had a lot to say about the streetscaping, road improvements, and other local concerns. It sounded like a lot of town businesses were negatively impacted by the resulting street closures. Except, apparently, Ryan’s bike shop. She glanced at him a few times, but he was impassive, a living stone. She stifled a giggle. Stone the stone.

Bennet wiggled her toes instead of poking Ryan with her foot to see if he’d react. He’d probably ignore her, and it would be childish. She stared at her empty plate.

May I take your plate? she asked Hal.

Nonsense. You know us fellas are on KP. Hal rose and took her plate.

I’ll help. Ryan stood.

You keep Bennet company.

No, Bennet said, too sharply. She smiled to cover her tone. I mean, I need to talk to Cate, so there’s no need.

Hal smiled, an odd half-frown, while Ryan shrugged and glanced at Cate, who sat engrossed in conversation with Bess and Grandma. So much for that story.

Bennet circled her foot on the carpet as she watched Hal and Ryan walk to the kitchen.

She and her college friends used to admire guys like Ryan from afar, watching them on the campus green. When any one of them found the courage to approach one of the guys, they were unimpressed by the lackluster personalities that didn’t match their attractive, charismatic exteriors. That was Ryan all over.

Bennet scanned the room. Rev. Smith and Joe had joined Hal and Ryan in the kitchen. Louisa and Bella huddled together, their hair a black fan as they leaned toward each other. Bennet smiled. This was home, these people her family. She had plans for the toy shop, plans that didn’t include moving from the location her grandparents had picked out over forty years before. She bent forward. That’s where they were going, forward, not out. Ryan could go suck an egg. Bennet giggled at the thought of Ryan trying to do just that, his cheeks pulled in, a sour expression on his handsome face. Wouldn’t be much of a change.

She was thinking entirely too much about Ryan Stone.

Chapter Two

Ryan walked up to his small, creamy-yellow California bungalow-style house. The front porch was what had first attracted him to the house, which was like a mini version of his grandparents’ house around the corner. He stared down the tree-lined