Page 19 of Last Call

“Mom?”

“Yes?”

“Thanks.”

“You’ll get the bill.”

Fallon laughed.I’ve no doubt.

Andi stretched her feet across Billie’s lap with a sigh.

“Long day?” Billie asked.

“No. I’m just trying to soak up the quiet for as long as possible.”

“Second thoughts about Dave and Becky moving up here?”

“No,” Andi replied.

“You realize they will have their own home?”

“Yes. I also know a baby will be in this house for the better part of every week.”

“I thought you’d be excited,” Billie commented.

“I’m excited. I’m still going to savor the quiet.”

“Uh-huh.”

“What?” Andi asked.

“What happened when you saw Riley earlier?”

“Nothing out of the ordinary.”

“Andi?”

“Billie, I promise nothing happened that you need to worry about.”

“I can see it in your eyes. Something has you worried.”

Andi shrugged. She wouldn’t classify her thoughts as worry. She shared a close relationship with Fallon and Riley, but her bond with each was different. Andi could anticipate Fallon’s reactions to life’s changes. Fallon loved deeply and without reservation. She wanted the best for everyone she cared about and was excited about the prospect of building a life with Riley. Sometimes, Fallon’s enthusiasm caused her to get ahead of herself, and Andi worried about the inevitable tumble.

“I’m notworried,” Andi said. “Fallon is making plans in her head, and we both know she doesn’t always take the time to consider how other people might feel about thoseplans.”

“Okay? Are you talking about the house?”

“That applies. I’m talking about the reason she’s building that house.”

“You mean for Owen?” Billie asked.

“I mean for her kids—yes.”

“I don’t get it.”

“Billie, Fallon has resigned herself to the idea that Dean will be the donor for their children.”

“Seriously?” Billie asked.