“Your plan is reckless,” he growled. “There are too many variables, too many things that could go wrong.”
“He’s right,” Malene agreed. “We can use the premonition but do it in a different way.”
I slapped my thigh. “Okay. Who’s got a better idea?”
We huddled in silence in the kitchen. Our gazes locked on one another as we each turned the idea around in our heads.
Malene tapped a finger to her cheek. Urleen clicked her curling iron off and on while Norma Ray sucked her teeth in thought.
“What if…no,” Norma Ray said. “Never mind.”
Urleen lifted a finger. “How about…oh, no, that won’t work, either.”
They were raising and crushing my hopes every other second.
Rufus kept his gaze on the floor while he rubbed his jaw. He shifted his weight back and forth before stopping and snapping his fingers.
His gaze sparkled. “I’ve got it.”
My breath caught. “What? What’s your idea?”
He gripped the back of the chair in front of him and leaned forward. “Hang on to your hats, ladies. Here’s what we should do.”
Chapter 20
Rufus told us his plan, which we all agreed was a great idea. When we were finished and everyone knew what part they would play, Rufus and I headed from the house.
“So,” he said slowly, “I know we said dinner tomorrow night, but would tonight be okay?”
I had to bite back the smile that flitted on my face. “Well, if you’re asking, I’m free. But can Lady come with us? She’s been stuck at the house all day.”
He smiled. “Absolutely.”
I got Lady and headed back outside to meet Rufus. The cat across the street saw us coming and turned to show us his or her behind.
“That cat,” Lady called, “I’m gonna get it. One of these days, I swear. When that feline comes outside, I’m gonna be ready.”
I stroked her head. “You’re so feisty.”
“I can’t help it. That’s what that cat’s done to me. She makes me mad.”
The creature turned around to face us, and I swear that it was glowering at Lady.
“See?” my dog said. “She or he is looking for a fight. I’m gonna get it, and I’m gonna get it good.”
“Maybe you should try to be friends.”
Lady looked at me as if I’d grown a third head. “With a cat that’s that rude? I don’t know about you, but I don’t make friends with animals like that.”
I shook my head. “Let’s leave the feline alone. We’re gonna go out to eat.”
Lady panted with excitement. “Oh, can we get burgers? I love burgers, especially with pimiento cheese on top.”
“That gives you the runs.”
Lady winced. “Do we have to talk about my bowel movements?”
“When I’m the one who winds up cleaning them up because you didn’t make it outside quick enough, yes.”
