Eddie Carter, the quintessential tall, dark, and handsome boy, flashed an impish smile. His caramel black skin stood in stark contrast to his mother’s ivory complexion. Three years Victoria’s junior, he took to heart his role as the brother the Pearson sisters never had.

“I was particularly enamored with the second violin part,” he said with a nod to Marie. “The way you held those long notes showed a mastery of skill beyond my wildest expectations.”

Marie rolled her eyes. “Eddie, you know full well I didn’t do much of anything.”

“To the contrary.” His eyes sparkled, lighting up his smooth, brown face. “You kept from falling off your chair while you slept during the sermon—quite a feat.”