“So much more, my sister.Somuch more.”
After a round of congratulations and hugs, they finished the meal. Serenity and Dana went to the kitchen for the dessert, and Natasha noticed Terri had gotten a little quiet. “Hey, you okay?”
“Yeah, fine.” Terri hastily dabbed at the moisture in her eyes. “Just happy for them.”
She sensed it was more than that. “You and Jon okay?”
“Some days I think yes, but others…” Terri shrugged. “And before you ask, no, I don’t think he’s cheating or anything like that. It’s mostly him being preoccupied with work. Moving here was supposed to allow us to slow down some and start a family, but that hasn’t happened.”
She could see how Serenity’s news could put a damper on things because Terri wanted the same. “Maybe you two need to get away for a little while, so you can talk without the stress of your jobs.”
“Maybe. Please don’t say anything to Serenity. You know she’ll worry, and that’s the last think I want. Jon and I will be okay. His caseload has increased. Hopefully, once they bring in the new attorney, it’ll drop back down.” She tried to smile.
“I won’t, but if you need to talk, call me anytime. Promise me. That’s what sister-friends do.”
“I will. Now, no more of this. We have some celebrating to do.”
“Natasha, you cannoteat all the strawberries. Dana and Terri, I suggest you get yours first,” Serenity added as she and Dana returned, placing the berries in front of Terri. Dana placed another small plate with the molded chocolate cups filled with chopped raspberries and strawberries next to the first one.
“I need extra strawberries after what happened to my other ones,” Natasha muttered, her anger rising all over again, thinking about what Kathleen had done.
Dana picked up a berry. “What are you talking about?”
She told them what Kathleen had done and how she’d replaced the eaten ones with hers. “The next day, she had the nerve to ask me if my clients enjoyed their treat. I was so mad, I wanted to knock that smug smile off her face.”
Serenity frowned. “Why didn’t you tell me? I would’ve made you more. That woman is truly out of her mind. You really need to talk to George about this mess.”
“I did,” she said, snagging a strawberry and a chocolate cup. “He said he’s going to be watching her because it isn’t the first time she’s done something like this.” Natasha groaned. “These are the best things ever. Strawberries, chocolate… there’s nothing better.”
“Since we’re sharing news,” Dana started, “I’ve been asked to fill in for a small symphony orchestra for a couple of weeks in Southern California. Their piano player is recovering from a surgical procedure. I went to school with one of the members, and she recommended me. Thank goodness I still practice every day.”
“I am so happy for you, girl. I know you’ve been wanting to get back out there,” Natasha said. They toasted Dana’s good news. “When are you leaving?”
“The end of next week. I’ve been studying and practicing the music ever since I found out, but I need to get down there so I can practice with the orchestra before the performances.”
“Which means you’ll be gone for close to a month?” Terri asked.
“Pretty much. And y’all better not be having all these supper clubs without me.” She popped the rest of a chocolate cup into her mouth. After chewing, she added, “Or at least send me a care package.”
“We got you, sis,” Serenity said. They chatted a little longer about Dana’s itinerary. Then Serenity said, “Tasha, I know you said no more Antonio talk, but are you two hooking up after you leave here?”
“No. He’s got another date tonight with his niece. Apparently, she invited herself to spend the night.”
“He’s keeping her overnight?” Dana asked with surprise.
“Yes, and he sounded so excited.”
“Maybe he’s practicing for when he has his own,” she mumbled.
Natasha skewered Dana with a look. “Don’t try to act all innocent. I heard that comment.” She’d be lying if she didn’t say the thought had crossed her mind as well. She could imagine him holding their child.Whoa, girl! You are getting way ahead of yourself,her inner voice chimed. This time she agreed with the annoying voice. They hadn’t even made it to the two-month mark yet. Dating. That’s all she needed to concentrate on right now. No babies, no nothing. Just. Dating.
Antonio had barely gotten out of his car when he heard Noelle’s voice. The screen door opened, and she greeted him with a grin stretching across her face.
“Uncle Tony, I’m ready to go with you.” Noelle came out onto the porch, dragging a bag that was almost as big as her. She staggered a little, and Nate steadied her. He tried to take the bag. “No, Daddy. I can do it.”
Antonio chuckled as he stepped up onto the porch. He and Nate shared a brotherly hug. “You and April ready for your night alone?”
“You’d better believe it. And this one here,” Nate said, pointing at Noelle, “has been sitting in front of the door for the past ten minutes.”
