Page 91 of Second Dance
“Okay, so back to Gillian and Alex,” Esme said. “How are the kids doing? Have they warmed up to you?”
I smiled, nodding. “They have.” I went on to share the strides I’d made with Bella. “She called me their guardian angel last night. Isn’t that sweet?” Emotion climbed up my throat and my eyes stung. “I know I’ll never replace her mother, and I would never want to, but I can love her and be there for her.”
“I knew she’d love you eventually,” Esme said. “You’re the most lovable person ever.”
“That’s true,” Lila said.
“So what’s next for you two?” Delphine asked. “Have you discussed the future?”
Delphine, ever practical.
“Not specifically, but he did ask my ring size last night.” I blushed, embarrassed. “We admitted we love each other. For the second time.”
Esme raised her glass. “Let’s toast. To true love and second chances.”
“To our meddlesome kids,” Lila said.
“Here, here,” Seraphina said.
Our meals arrived—a Cobb salad for Delphine, grilled salmon and vegetables for me and burgers for the other three—and the conversation shifted to catching up on everyone's lives.
“So, Lila, when does filming start?” I asked, cutting into my salmon.
“Three weeks.” Lila's eyes sparkled with nervous excitement. “They're starting with a beach house renovation right here in Willet Cove. I still can't believe this is happening.”
“You're going to be amazing,” Esme said, then sighed. “Meanwhile, I'm just trying to keep the shop afloat. June wasdecent, but I'm still playing catch-up.” Her voice went tight. “Jeff hasn't sent child support in months.”
“Still?” Delphine set down her fork, anger flashing in her eyes. “Have you talked to a lawyer?”
Esme shrugged, but I could see the worry behind her casual smile. “Lawyers cost money.”
“And you, Seraphina?” I asked, wanting to lighten the mood. “New book?”
“Historical romance. Regency era. And yes, before you ask—I've only set off the smoke alarm twice this month.” She grinned. “Just kidding.”
We all laughed, actually wondering if she was.
“Okay, don’t faint with shock, but I’ve been thinking about the dating app,” Lila said. “I might have it go live again. Just out of curiosity.”
“Really?” Esme lifted her brows. “I’m surprised. What brought this on?”
“I don’t know. Maybe Gillian and Alex are inspiring me.” Lila stabbed at a cherry tomato in her Cobb salad. “The kids are right about the future. We’ll all be empty nesters in four years. Truth is, I’d like to find love again. Only this time with someone who doesn’t cheat on me with his intern.”
“That doesn’t seem like too much to ask,” Seraphina said, laughing. But there was a bitter edge behind the laughter.
“Or is it?” Esme asked.
“Oh my gosh, maybe your first design client on your show will be a handsome rogue,” Seraphina said. “And you’ll fall madly in love.”
“Doubtful,” Lila said, shaking her head. “It’s not one of your stories, as much as I wish it was.”
“What’s a rogue anyway?” Delphine asked. “Isn’t that a bad thing?”
“A redeemed rogue, then,” Seraphina said. “With an interesting past but now living a boring life right here in Willet Cove.”
“It’s not boring here,” Esme said. “Maybe a little sleepy, but we have the beach and a quaint downtown. What more could we ask for?”
“What about you three? Are you going to put your profile back up?” I asked. “Seraphina, any interest?”
