It seemed like a decent, old-fashioned family gesture, Laura thought. But it was an unwelcome favor. She knew she’d have to pay for her mother’s help—with obligations and intimacy. Laura hadn’t asked for that and didn’t want it. And didn’t even need it—she and David had the company behind them, after all, good solid Rizome gemeineschaft . "That’s very nice, mother," she said. "Thank you for the offer. David and I appreciate it." She turned her face away, to the window.