Page 7 of The Fall

Ben’s wife Stella approaches us, clapping as she looks at me. “You understood the assignment. I love your costume.”

“Love yours, too,” I say.

She’s dressed as Mario fromMario Brothers, the mustache so long it covers her mouth.

“Ben and I are Mario and Luigi, but obviously he had to be Sal for this party. Guess who’s definitely not getting laid tonight in that porn star getup?” She laughs, sounding a little tipsy.

Ben approaches, clapping Rowan on the shoulder. They start talking about football, and Stella takes my arm and leads me toward the kitchen.

“Tess made the most amazing punch,” she says. Once we’re out of earshot of the guys, she leans in closer. “Rowan can barely keep his tongue in his mouth when he’s around you. Are you into him?”

“I do really like him. But after the stalking situation, I decided not to date anyone for a year. Rowan keeps reminding me it’s been eleven months.”

She puts a hand over her heart. “I love a persistent man. Are you going to give him a shot?”

“I don’t know. I think he’s great, but what if he’s just asking me because I’ve said no and he likes the challenge of it? I have two kids, and?—”

“I completely get it. You have to look out for yourself and your kids first. If it helps any, Ben has never said anything about Rowan that was a red flag.”

We reach the massive punch bowl, which is being cradled in the arms of a skeleton. Stella takes a cup from the stack on the island, ladles a full cup and passes it to me, then fills one for herself.

“Thanks.” I take a sip and cough. “Wow, my sister was generous with the booze.”

I have to work tomorrow, but since the boys are at a sleepover and I don’t get out much, I’m going to enjoy myself tonight and sleep here.

“So, how’s the new house?” she asks.

“It’s really good, thanks for asking. My boys are so thrilled to have their own rooms. I feel like such a rock star mom. I’m sure it won’t last, but I’m enjoying it for now.”

We walk over to an unoccupied corner of the kitchen—well, occupied only by a mannequin dressed like a vampire--and she gives me a wistful look. “Ben and I aren’t telling many people, but we’re trying to get pregnant.”

“Aw.” I smile at her and squeeze her hand. “Good luck, girl.”

“Thanks. We’re trying not to overthink it.” She rolls her eyes. “I guess I should say I’m pretending not to overthink it, but I totally am. We’re in a phase where we know I’m not pregnant and I’m not in my getting pregnant hormone zone, so I’m drinking and having fun tonight. Maybe we’ll actually have sex for fun tonight, no pressure.”

“Sex.” I say it longingly and sigh. “Remind me what that’s like?”

“It’s been a year? Girl, any single man at this party would be thrilled to go home with you tonight. I mean, if that’s what you want.”

“Hey!” Tess is coming toward us, her green-painted face and prosthetic nose transforming her into the Wicked Witch of the West.

“I thought you said you were wearing a costume?” I give her a confused look and Stella bursts out laughing.

“This bitch.” She hugs me. “Did you try my punch?”

“I’m having some now. I think I’ll be drunk after four sips.”

Tess takes a gulp from the cup in her hand. “Hey, a kid-free night is a treat. We have to maximize the enjoyment.”

“Is Zee here?”

“He’s staying the night with a friend.”

I give her a pitying look. “The oldstaying the night with a friendbit? I remember it well. I’m sure you do, too.”

“No, he really is.” She furrows her brow. “I mean, I’m pretty sure he is. I’m keeping an eye on his phone location.”

“Well, if you think he’s lying and having sex with a girl instead, I’m riding shotgun when you go bitch him out in this.” I gesture at her costume.

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