Page 56 of Last Call

Riley put the phone back to her ear and stepped away from the bar. “They’re a little excited,” she explained.

“Who is thethey?” Beth asked, giggling. “The whole town?”

“Close,” Riley said. “We decided we’d wait for your call at Murphy’s.”

“How many people are sleeping at your house?”

“Besides your kids?” Riley quipped.

“Pete and I can pick them up.”

“No,” Riley said. “I know it’s been a stressful night for him. You two should spend some time alone.”

“Riley.”

“Youcanpick the kids up whenever you want. Somehow, I think it might be good for you to have tonight with Pete.”

“He’s worried about Evan.”

Riley’s eyes drifted to the booth where Evan and Fallon were sitting. Evan was laughing. “I think Evan is okay. He’s been eating nachos with Fallon. I can have him call you,” Riley suggested.

“No. I’ll have Pete call Fallon’s phone when he comes back. He went to get Dale a coffee. Are you sure you don’t mind the kids spending the night?”

“Are you trying to avoid a night alone with your boyfriend?”

Beth chuckled.

“Not denying it, huh?” Riley teased.

“I hadn’t thought about it that way.”

“Maybe you should.”

“Maybe so,” Beth said. “Thanks, Riley.”

“No worries. Listen, I can drop Evan off at school. Fallon can pick him up after she meets with Jerry. He’s checking on the progress at the house.”

“You don’t need to do that.”

“It’s not an issue. Owen loves going toanyschool. He told me the other day he’s big enough to take the bus.”

“Oh, boy.”

“I know,” Riley said. “Being around the kids is good for him. Why don’t you and Pete join us for dinner tomorrow? I’ll stop by Charlie’s after I take Evan to school. Take the day off from kiddos—other than the new baby, of course.”

“Are you sure?”

“Sure, I’m sure.”

“That would be amazing,” Beth said. “Pete will probably protest, but I know he could use a break. Tonight was stressful.”

“I can’t even imagine. We’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Thanks again, Riley.”

“Anytime,” Riley said, reclaiming her barstool.

“So,” Billie began. “Beth went with Pete to the hospital, huh?”

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