"Oh, my. You're a grown woman. Why are you still getting jealous?" Irene Lynch couldn't help but laugh at the look on Grace's face.
Grace laughed along and wrapped an arm around Joanne. "This is great! I'm getting on in years and I've gained a little sister. Does this mean someone will help me with the chores from now on? Can I finally slack off?"
"I'm going to be a wicked older sister and order my little sister to do everything."
Irene Lynch just shook her head and smiled.
A blissful expression on her face, Joanne said, "Okay, you can ask me to help with anything from now on. I—I don't mind at all."
"Don't listen to your sister's nonsense. The girls in our family don't have to do chores." Irene Lynch patted the back of Joanne's hand. After a moment's thought, she added, "Since I've officially taken you as my goddaughter, I can't skip the welcome gift. Wait here for a minute."
With that, she got up and went into her room, emerging a moment later with something in her hands.
