“I like it. I don’t know how you could imagine it like this, but I really like it.” Laurel checked herself in the closet’s full-length mirror. “I feel younger.”
“You look younger. Now, all you need are some silver earrings, something simple like hoops. And a bit of lip color, maybe evensome mascara, and you’ll be rocking it.” Riva gently pushed Fred aside and stood.
“Thank you.” Laurel hugged her. “You’re a true friend.” She pointed to Riva’s leggings and baggy T-shirt. “Is that what you’re wearing tonight?”
“No, these really are my work clothes. I haven’t even showered yet, and I was cleaning and doing yard work earlier.” She smirked. “Gotta keep up with the chores roster.”
“Unlike some people.” Laurel scowled.
“We’re still getting the kinks out.” Riva shrugged. “Anyway, I guess I should get ready.”
Riva was just going down the hallway when she heard footsteps and turned to see Kitty emerging from her room. “Hi there.” Riva forced a smile, trying not to blink at Kitty’s over-the-top ensemble. The low-cut turquoise top, floral miniskirt, and high-heeled shortie boots brought to mind seventies disco, or maybe it wasPretty Woman. “You certainly look festive.” She waited at the top of the stairs.
“Thanks. I’m in a festive mood.”
“Leaving for The Brewery early?”
“I’m meeting friends for a light dinner beforehand.” She slid her purse strap over her shoulder, then cocked her head to one side. “Is that what you’re wearing?”
Riva smiled. “No, I was just going down to shower and change.” She stepped aside to let Kitty pass. “I have to give it to you, Kitty,” she said as she followed her down, “not all women our age can pull off a short skirt like that. Your legs are amazing.”
“Well, aren’t you sweet.” Kitty paused at the foot of the stairs, striking a pose. “My yoga class is paying off. That and a new tanning cream I started carrying at the salon.” Her brow creased as she studied Riva. “You might want to try some.”
“Thanks.” Riva cringed inwardly. “I’ll think about that.”
Kitty flipped a strand of Farrah Fawcett hair over her shoulder and called back “See ya later” as she left. To Riva’s relief,the house felt peaceful again. She didn’t blame Kitty exactly, but more and more she felt this youth-chasing woman was a misfit in a house that would be better suited to growing old gracefully.And graciously, Riva reminded herself. Maybe Kitty needed them.
Chapter18
Worried that Marcus might show up to take her to The Brewery, Riva had texted earlier, informing him that Laurel offered to drive her and Windy. As in, hint hint, this is not a date. But as the three women walked into the pub from the parking lot, she felt a strange flutter of expectation at the thought of seeing him there. And that bothered her. She didn’twantto feel that way ... shouldn’t feel that way.
Although she’d pondered over her own wardrobe choices tonight, she had finally decided on a black linen sleeveless shift dress and sandals. Rather plain and boring but comfortable and cool enough to withstand the occasional hot flash, which she hated to admit still took her by surprise. To spice up the dress, she’d belted it with a long, fringed scarf and put on an old squash blossom necklace that Paul’s mother had given her many years ago. According to Kenzie, who planned to inherit the necklace one day, these were a hot ticket item nowadays.
The look Riva had been going for tonight wasn’t completely clear, but Windy had proclaimed her as “boho chic.” As the three of them walked into the pub, all looking distinctly different from each other, she didn’t feel too out of place. Perhaps it was her imagination, but she felt like maybe a couple of headshad turned as they walked in. Not that she wanted that. Or did she?
Marcus was seated by himself at a table up front, but he quickly stood when the three approached him, warmly greeting each of them. “You ladies all look lovely.” He pulled out a chair for Laurel. “Fiona was just here. Their guitarist is running late, so they’ll start up in about fifteen minutes.”
“Looks like a mixed crowd,” Riva observed. “Not all young folks.”
“Fiona’s flyers must’ve worked,” Windy added.
Marcus pointed to his glass of red wine. “In case you didn’t know, they don’t only serve beer here. And I have to admit their house red isn’t half bad.”
He offered to get them all a glass and while he was waiting at the bar, Kitty walked in. Riva wasn’t even sure how she knew their housemate had arrived. Maybe she could feel the room buzzing, or maybe it was the male heads turning, but somehow she could tell. She watched as Kitty went straight to Marcus, sidling up to him in a flirtatious way that had never come naturally to Riva ... and she hoped never would!
“That woman is such a narcissist,” Laurel mumbled.
“Really?” Windy’s pale brows arched.
“I’ve been reading up on it.” Laurel’s eyes were fixed on Kitty and Marcus. “Believe me, I think Kitty pretty much checks all the boxes for narcissism.”
“Laurel is an armchair psychiatrist,” Riva teased. “Next she’ll be diagnosing me.”
“I’ve already done that.” Laurel smirked. “You’re a repressed widow who feels guilty for having fun of any kind.”
Riva blinked but didn’t respond.
Laurel seemed to regret her words. “Sorry, I didn’t mean that to sound like a dig, Riva. You know I love you. It’s just that, well, you must admit that you’ve had a hard time getting back into the swing of things.”
