Page 90 of Whispers and Wildfire

“Don’t you already have a grill?”

“We have two. And a smoker. But this one is bigger than the one we have, so obviously that means he needs it.” She shook her head.

“Men and their meat,” I said with a slight laugh.

“I swear, he’s going to get kicked out. I’m going to go make him move.”

Sharla stalked off toward the silent auction area. I took another sip of champagne, wondering if I could sneak out early. I’d put a small donation in the basket when I’d checked in. It wasn’t much, but I wasn’t exactly swimming in cash. Every little bit would help. There wasn’t anything in the silent auction that I wanted, and I certainly wasn’t going to bid on any bachelors. I’d made my appearance. I could probably just leave.

Then again, dinner was provided. Maybe I’d stay for the meal.

Mom sidled up next to me. To the surprise of no one, she wore the loudest dress in the room—a floor-length gown with bright pink sequins.

“Have you perused the bachelor photos yet?” She nudged me with her elbow.

“No. That’s weird.”

“Why is it weird?”

“I’m not going to go over there and ogle a bunch of guys, most of whom are probably ten years younger than me.”

“Who said anything about ogling? Aren’t you going to bid on anyone?”

“No. Absolutely not.”

“There are some cute ones.”

“Do you really think I’m so desperate for a date that I have to buy one at an auction?”

“There are worse ways to meet someone.”

I rolled my eyes. “Mom. You’re killing me.”

“It’s just for fun. He doesn’t even have to take you out on a date. He could come over and help you set up your recording booth.”

“My recording booth is all set up.”

“Then why aren’t you working?”

“I don’t have a script.”

“Then why not get another voice acting job until you do?”

“I’m stuck with a noncompete,” I said. “I can’t do anything else until my contract forEnchanted Hollowis over.”

“Well, that seems silly. Do you want me to call them?”

I almost burst out laughing. “No, I do not want you to call the studio and tell them how you feel about noncompete clauses.”

“I’m just saying, I will.”

“I have no doubt.” It was time to change the subject. “So, which new pizza flavor is doing the best these days? It’s the pickle pizza, isn’t it? It has to be pickle.”

“Actually, the pickle pizza is selling enough to stay on the menu.”

“Why do you sound surprised by that? It’s amazing.”

“Not everyone loves pickles as much as you, lovey.”

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