Page 21 of The Merry Matchmaker

“Already?” protested Frankie. Not that Elinor was adding much sparkle to the evening, but Frankie hated to see her give up and run off.

“We do have work tomorrow,” Elinor said.

It was only nine. How much sleep did the woman need?

But Elinor hadn’t exactly been having fun. Frankie needed to let the poor woman escape.

“Okay,” she said, and walked Elinor to the door where she fetched Elinor’s coat from the coat closet.

“I’m glad you came,” Frankie said.

“Thank you for having me.” No mention of having had a good time. No surprise.

Poor Elinor. It couldn’t be fun being a human shadow. Frankie was going to have to find a way to help her get out there and get a life.

She returned to find the two men at the table, talking about the Seahawks while Stef was in the kitchen, shoving dishes into the dishwasher.

“There, you’re good to go,” she said curtly to Frankie as she inserted the last dinner plate. “And now I’m going.”

“What? You, too?” Frankie demanded.

“I’m not wanted here,” Stef hissed. “Good of you to invite me over to meet someone you’ve already latched on to,” she finished in disgust.

Good grief. Weren’t they a little old for sibling rivalry?

“I haven’t latched on to anyone,” Frankie protested in a whisper. “You’re being ridiculous.”

“Whatever.” Stef left the kitchen, gave both men a smile and announced, “The dishes are done. It’s time for the help to leave.”

Mitch looked surprised. “Already? Thought you’d want to stay and play some cards.”

“I’ve got another stop to make tonight,” Stef said brightly.

You do not, Frankie thought, irritated.

Stef gave Mitch a hug, then turned to Brock. “Welcome to Carol.”

“Thanks,” he said. “I think I’m gonna like it here.” He looked at Frankie.

“I bet you are,” Stef said sourly.

Frankie followed her to the door. Stef already had the coat closet door open and was pulling out her down coat.

“You are being difficult,” Frankie whispered, exasperated.

Stef ignored her, concentrating instead on holding her empty bowl while shrugging into her coat. “Good night,” she said.

Then she was gone, and Frankie came back to the table to join her two remaining supper guests. “I imagine you guys need to get going, too,” she said.

“I’m in no hurry,” said Brock.

Mitch leaned his arms on the table and looked across at him. “Me, either.”

So, what to do now?

“Ever played To Hell and Back?” asked Brock.

“Sure. Bring it on,” said Mitch. “Get the cards, Frankie.”

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