Page 22 of Cowboys at Coconuts

“I think these strong drinks will do the trick.” Alex giggled. “We told you to cut out this silliness a year ago.”

“She’s right. If I remember correctly, you promised you’d stop going on dates with strangers.” Suzy pushed her amber cocktail toward Cheri and instead sipped a non-alcoholic Shirley Temple. Eying the New Yorker, she said, “Cheri, I’m sure I speak for Alex that we’re thrilled you’re back in town, but listen to me. I’m a mom.”

“And a grandma,” Alex offered.

Suzy continued, “You must get off the stupid Internet to find men. Have you metanygood guys online?”

Cheri hated to admit it but she had had a string of online dating disasters. “You’re right. This is the last one. I promise.”

Peering over her drink, Alex said, “Good. In that case, tell us about some of your escapades.”

“Let’s see there was the adorable thirty-year-old stockbroker who’s a virgin. He wanted me to show him the way.”

“Adorable stockbroker who’s a virgin?” Alex leaned forward. “And you didn’t bed him? Why the hell not?”

“Too much pressure. He would have fallen in love with me, wanted to get married, have babies, the whole nine yards.” Cheri shrugged. “I’m not ready for that.” Grinning, she said, “I have more war stories. I met a surgeon with a huge ego and horse teeth to match.”

“Handy for corn on the cob.” Alex covered her mouth. “That was mean. Sorry. Not sorry.”

The socialite put her finger to her temple. “And there was the thirty-something loser who still lives with his parents. Another guy was so cheap he didn’t even offer to buy my coffee on the first date.” She shook her head. “He actually had acouponfor coffee. I had to hold myself back from telling him I could buy the entire coffee shop.” Glancing at her friends, she said, “I’ve met a lot of losers, haven’t I?”

“At least you can laugh about it now,” Suzy said. Alex rubbed her belly from laughing so hard. “I’ve missed you.”

“Sure, go ahead, laugh at my expense. I know I haven’t had much luck, but—” Cheri smiled a mile wide. “I met a guy the day I flew back. He’s cute, sweet, charming, and handsome.

“Oh,” both Suzy and Alex said in unison. After a brief hesitation, Alex said, “Don’t keep us in suspense. Spill.”

Leaning back, Cheri crossed her arms, for dramatic effect. “He’s a cowboy.”

Liquor spewed from Alex’s mouth. “A cowboy? You’re kidding, right?”

Suzy maintained her composure. “And where did you meet a cowboy?”

“At the airport. We’ve already kissed and—”

Alex held both arms straight out like an umpire. “Rewind, please. We’ve missed an important step here. You’ve got my attention.” She waved to Gus. “Another round, please, and remember, no booze for Suzy.”

After the drinks were served, both Suzy and Alex leaned toward Cheri. “Tell us everything,” Suzy said.

“From the beginning,” Alex added.

Cheri mentioned being shocked to see paparazzi at the airport and said she planted a kiss on the cowboy to distract the photographers.

“Oh, my God,” Alex interrupted. “How did he react?”

“He kissed me back. Twice.” Cheri wiggled her eyebrows. “It was amazing.”

Shaking her head, Alex asked, “Then, why in the hell did you go on that stupid date at the coffee shop?”

Shrugging, Cheri said. “Simple. He hasn’t called. I don’t even know his last name. His first name is Cole.” She stared at the table. “I may never see him again. All I can think about is that kiss.”

Chapter 23

As the server refilled their chips and salsa, another realization hit Hope. Holding a chip in mid-air, she said, “We have a huge problem. Larry and Willow are married.”

Paul furrowed his brows. “That name sounds familiar. Who’s Willow again?”

“She’s an art teacher at Hilltop and now an awkward friend.” Managing a small laugh, Hope said, “She’s a hippie too. No wonder Larry is attracted to her.”

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