“Mrs. Hoffman,” Justine said. “I would prefer water. And if you could tell me the special before I decide to order it, I’d be most grateful.” She asked nicely enough but Jack got the impression that Justine was annoyed. What had he done wrong? Mrs. Hoffman explained the dish, sauerbraten, which was roasted meat served with dumplings and cabbage. Justine proclaimed that would be fine and Mrs. Hoffman departed. Jack tapped his fingers on the table. “Don’t trust me?” “I do not care to have my choices taken away from me, no matter how small.” Brass ones. She was no wilting uptown flower. He liked
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