Joyce seemed pleased with that. “He’d love it, I’m sure.”
He grinned at Frankie. “I might need more yarn.”
“No problem,” she said. At some point, she’d probably need another trip to the art supply store.
“Actually, I could order it and have it sent here. No need for you to waste gas, man.” He held up the throw again. “I’m glad you like it.”
“Jack, I love it. I already know it’s going to be something I’ll treasure for a long time to come.” It made her itch to get to work on Arlington’s painting. She’d make good progress tomorrow for certain.
His smile said he was happy with her response. “Cool, cool.”
Willa came over with a foil-wrapped package. “Here you go. Three brownies ready to travel.”
“Sweet. That is super cool, thanks.” He put the throw back in the bag, then took the brownies. “You need anything for your classroom yet?”
“Not yet, but I’m sure I’ll have some things on my list soon. I’m waiting for the supplies email.”
“You just let me know.” He headed for the breezeway. “You ladies have a righteous evening.” He made a little bow, then left as they said goodbye.
As the sound of the door opening and closing reached them, Beryl took a deep breath. “Jackson Marsh. In the flesh. Imagine that. I should have moved to Florida a long time ago.”
They all laughed.
“You want to see the rest of the house?” Harper asked. “I promise Teddy’s not going to pop out of a closet or anything.”
“Yes, please,” Beryl said.
Harper looked at Frankie and Willa. “You don’t mind if I show them the upstairs?”
“Go right ahead,” Frankie said as Willa nodded.
Archie had apparently had enough of the tour. He climbed onto his blanket and settled in.
Harper took Joyce and Beryl up. They returned about ten minutes later, this time getting off the elevator.
Their wine glasses were empty. Harper brought the bottles over as they returned to their seats on the couch.
Beryl leaned toward Frankie. “I do hope I get to see your finished portrait. I saw the watercolor you did of theSojourner. You’re very good.”
“Thank you. I’ll be sure you get to see it.”
“Do you paint a lot of famous people?” Beryl looked utterly sincere.
Frankie laughed. “No, this is my first really big portrait commission. I’m excited to do it, but it’s also a little intimidating.”
“I’m sure it is,” Beryl said.
Frankie figured turnabout was fair play. “Did you ever bake anything for the Queen?”
Beryl’s eyes widened, then she laughed. “Oh, now, you’re taking the mick. She had her own royal bakers, you cheeky thing.”
Frankie chuckled. “Well, you’re good enough.”
“Behave.” But Beryl smiled even as she sipped her wine. After a moment, she said, “I’m baking for Jack tomorrow, as it happens. Some chocolate chip banana bread. Would you like a loaf of that? It’d be no trouble to make extra. I’ll already be making one for him and one for Mitch and Kyle.”
Frankie did try to watch her waistline, but with Lucas and Joyce in her circle of friends, that was hard to do. At least she was doing yoga now. She couldn’t resist Beryl’s offer. “That would be amazing. It sounds wonderful.”
Beryl nodded. “It’s as good as done.”
