Page 71 of Nightcaps at The Beach House Hotel

Emma made no move to leave, and I gave her a wink before I turned and walked away.

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In the office, I told Rhonda what was going on with the three of them and grinned. “I think your dinner party is going to be very revealing. It’ll be interesting to see how Rand and Emma do together tonight and with a follow-up social situation.”

“I’ve got a strong feeling about it,” said Rhonda.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

The next evening after work, I showered and dressed for dinner at Rhonda’s. Vaughn was looking forward to an evening out of the house and eating Rhonda’s excellent cooking. Growing up in an Italian neighborhood, Rhonda had learned recipes and cooking from the best.

I was looking forward to seeing how the date between Emma and Rand went. I’d been unable to get away for our scheduled early morning walk because Robbie wasn’t feeling well. He was much better now and loved having Liana stay with him while we were gone, claiming she was a great game player.

When Vaughn came into the room, I was putting on my earrings. He came up behind me and gave me a squeeze. “You look extra beautiful tonight. I like that blue dress. It matches your eyes.”

I turned around and kissed him. “Thanks. You’re looking handsome yourself.”

“Anything I should know before we arrive at Rhonda’s?”

“Rand and Emma went on a date last night. I have no idea how things went. I’ve heard nothing more about Darryl’s situation. Rhonda’s hoping that we all can relax and enjoy ourselves.”

Vaughn gave me a little salute. “Okay. Got it. Let’s go.”

I grabbed my purse and walked out to the kitchen to say goodbye to Robbie.

After making sure he had some healthy food for dinner, I kissed him and left with Vaughn, stopping to give Cindy a pat on the head.

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When we arrived at Rhonda’s, the house was lit up from the inside. She and Will lived in a gorgeous, expansive two-story home with white-painted stucco walls and a red tile roof.

Vaughn and I got out of the car and were walking toward the front entrance when Darryl, Emma, and Rand arrived. We stopped to greet them and then went to the front door.

The door opened and Willow and Drew stood there smiling. Willow wore a pretty flowery dress and Drew looked spiffy in a clean T-shirt and shorts.

“Hi, Auntie Ann and Uncle V,” said Willow. “Please come inside.”

I smiled and leaned down to kiss her.

“Mommy says we can greet the guests,” said Willow proudly.

“How do you do?” Drew said to the trio behind us.

I stood aside to listen.

Willow said, “Welcome.” She stared at Emma. “You’re pretty.”

“Thank you,” said Emma politely.

Willow stared up at Rand and I waited to hear what she had to say. “You’re … nice.”

Rand blinked in surprise. “I appreciate that very much.”

Willow’s gaze swept over Darryl. “I like your bare head.”

Darryl chuckled. “An honest compliment.”

Rhonda rushed up to the doorway. “Hello, everyone. Please come in.” She turned to Willow and Drew. “Thank you both for greeting our guests. Now we’ll show them inside like a good host and hostess.”

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