Page 47 of A Moment In Time

“You might not remember this, but when my mom said I should attend the Ladies’ Auxiliary luncheon, you told me you had my back. Which I took as meaning, you’d come with me.”

“I remember. But—”

“I only agreed to go because I thought you’d be there.”

She sighed. “When is it?”

“Today.”

“Today?”

“Yes. In thirty minutes.”

Sydney cocked her head. “You’re kidding.”

“No. I didn’t want to give you a chance to come up with an excuse not to go.”

“So you gave me thirty minutes to get ready?”

“Yeah. Does that mean you’re coming?”

She looked at him for a moment. “I need to change.”

She closed the door and Gage backed up a few steps, wondering if he’d made the right choice in showing up at her door. “This should be interesting.”

Ten minutes later, Sydney came through the door dressed appropriately for lunch with some of the prominent women of Calaway Crossing. She looked at Gage.

“What do you have on under your coat?”

He unbuttoned his wool coat and held it open to show her his slacks and blue cotton shirt. Sydney nodded, then walked past him to his truck. When he got in, she was already in the passenger seat.

He looked at her for a moment. “Thank you.”

“You really didn’t leave me much of a choice.”

“You could’ve told me to get the hell off your porch.”

“I thought about it.”

Gage started the motor. He’d really missed Sydney.

The luncheon was being held at the Ambrose Tavern as most events involving food were. The tables were set up in the bar area since it didn’t open until two. White tablecloths and floral centerpieces covered the small wooden bar tables. The meal was a buffet with a few salad choices, lunchmeats and cheese, bread, fruit, and a selection of desserts. Coffee, hot tea, and iced tea were also available.

When Gage and Sydney arrived, Edie Bessler was there, along with several other women. She came up to Gage with a smile.

“Welcome.”

“Thank you.” Gage looked around the room. “Quite a transformation.”

“Dear Becca is a wonder.”

“Yes, she is.”

“You and Sydney will sit at my table. And after we eat, we’ll have time for a short Q and A with you.”

“Right. Sounds good.”

“The ladies love that you’re here.”

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