Page 44 of Muskoka Miracle

“It’s all an act,” Serena said in a loud whisper, obviously meaning for Jackie to hear. “Lincoln is a total pushover when it comes to Jackie.”

“Are you two finished?” Jackie shook her head, smiling at Sarah. “Welcome. And thank you for coming. I wasn’t sure you would.”

“I appreciate the invitation.”

“I’m sorry Ange couldn’t come.”

“She explained she had a prior engagement. It’s okay.”

“Alright, well, come on in. I want to introduce you to everyone. It’s a shame your husband couldn’t meet the ladies. I think there are a few who’d enjoy meeting him.”

“He’s watching hockey tonight. With John.”

“Oh! Linc said he planned to do the same. I think Joel was going too.”

“Great.” So there’d be a man club next door to the women’s cluckery. Awesome.

Jackie pushed open the heavy front door and Sarah blinked. The white marble entry led to a picture window that showcased Lake Muskoka from a different angle to their own place. “Wow. Great view.”

“It’s nice, huh? Although I’m sure yours is much the same.”

“Ours faces a slightly more southerly aspect.”

“Oh, so you get the little island?”

“The one with the Canada flag? Yep. It’s so cute, isn’t it?”

Jackie’s smile held ease. “I love this part of the world.”

“It’s Muskoka,” Serena said. “What’s not to love?”

Sarah felt a little shy as Serena and Jackie did the introductions to half a dozen other women. Toni, she recognized, but some of the other faces blurred, and she didn’t quite figure out who matched what names. But everyone seemed pleased to see her. Some seemedreallypleased.

“Oh my gosh, I can’t believe I’m actually talking to you.” One of the women—Sarah thought her name was Anna—was fanning herself as they ate from the amazing antipasto platters.

Sarah forced a smile as she cut herself a wedge of cheese. “I can’t believe I’m here either. In Lincoln Cash’s house, no less.”

“Right? It was such a surprise when he married Jackie—now that’s a story and a half, but you should ask her. But they’re happy, and got little Charlie now, so it’s all good.”

Sarah nodded. “And you? Are you married?”

“Engaged!” Anna waggled a finger with a big rock. “Tom and I are getting married next month.”

“Congratulations.”

“Thank you. Tom is a local detective, and very, very hot.”

Sarah chuckled. “Okay.”

“Well, maybe not as hot as your husband, but that would be weird for me to say, so I won’t say it.”

Another chuckle. Anna was fun.

“Speaking of hot, Sarah, have you got an opinion on what role Lincoln is hottest in?” another woman called.

Jackie groaned. “Rachel.”

“Now how many times have we talked about asking questions like this?” Serena said, winking at Sarah.

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