Page 73 of A Table for Two
Dana nodded. “School is about to start, and the garage has been crazy busy, too.”
“I’d think that would be at the start of summer, not the end, since that’s when people take vacations.” Serenity took a few sips of water.
“Oh, it’s hectic then, too.”
Serenity turned to Natasha. “What about the real estate business?”
“Every season is busy, but for different reasons. Winter and fall tend to be a little cheaper because not many people sell during those months. It’s the holidays, school has started, and parents don’t particularly want to uproot the children, so it’s probably a better time to buy for someone who’s strapped for cash. In the spring and summer, it may be more expensive, but with the better weather, houses tend to show better. And those folks who couldn’t sell in the winter are eager to get it done.”
Serenity had no idea of all that went into the real estate market.
“I do have some good news,” Natasha said excitedly.
“What?” Dana and Serenity said at the same time.
“A friend of mine asked me to be her interior designer. She said she’d be more than happy to provide referrals when I’m done.”
Serenity’s mouth fell open. “That’s great, girl.”
“It is,” Dana agreed. “You’ve been wanting to do this for a long time. I’m glad you’re finally getting a chance to put that degree to work.”
Natasha nodded. “You and me both. If it works out, I’ll think about doing it part-time.”
The server returned with their food. They all thanked the young man and started in on the meal.
“This is good,” Dana said, “but I really want more of those crab-stuffed shrimp wrapped in bacon. That’s the first time you’ve done an all-appetizer spread for our supper club meets. What made you decide on that?”
Serenity shrugged. “I just wanted to do something different. I’m thinking for the next one, a brunch menu for dinner—homemade waffles, bacon, smoked sausage, scrambled eggs, fruit, sautéed potatoes with peppers and onions, cinnamon rolls.”
Natasha groaned. She glanced down at her salad, then at Serenity. “There is just something wrong about you sitting here talking about all that good food while we’re having salads. I wantallof that menunow.” She shot Serenity a glare as she shoved a forkful of chef salad in her mouth.
Serenity almost choked on her water. “I’m sorry. I was just thinking out loud.” Too late it dawned on her that she’d basically recited most of the same brunch menu she and Gabriel had shared. Images of their time together filled her mind—from cooking together and dancing in her kitchen to relaxing with full plates on the deck. It startled her to realize that he’d become an integral part of her beloved cooking. Only this time, there was no criticism. Just appreciation. Deciding not to dwell on it for now, she went back to her conversation. “I don’t have anything planned for the next couple of weeks, so let me know when you want to do the next meetup.”
“Tonight!”both Natasha and Dana said, bringing on another fit of laughter.
“Seriously though,” Natasha said, “let’s check with Terri first to see when she’s off. She’d be too mad if she missed out.” The three continued to eat for a few minutes, and then she asked, “Did Chandra and Mark get home safely?”
“They’re not headed home until the weekend. Mark surprised her with a trip to Napa and San Francisco. They spent Monday and yesterday in Napa and are heading toward the Bay today.” Serenity smiled remembering the shock on her sister’s face. Rarely was someone able to pull one over on Chandra, and Serenity couldn’t have been more excited for them. What moved Serenity most was Mark’s words.Baby, you work so hard helping everyone else find balance. This week I’m helping you find yours.The kiss they’d shared after had been so filled with passion, Serenity had felt it clear across the room.
Dana sighed wistfully. “That is so wonderful. Does Mark have any brothers?”
“Two sisters,” Serenity said with a chuckle. She’d wondered the same thing the first time she’d met Mark.
“Speaking of men, that was some serious heat you and Gabriel were generating on Saturday.”
She pretended to focus on her salad and forked up a big bite. Silence rose, and she finally lifted her head, meeting Natasha’s and Dana’s expectant gazes. “Yeah, heat.”
Natasha fanned herself. “Girl, with how close you two were dancing and the way he was staring at you, I fully expected him to kiss you right then and there.”
“I know that’s right,” Dana said. “I don’t know if I would’ve had the restraint you had, Serenity. I might’ve taken the decision out of his hands and kissedhim.”
Serenity’s body tingled with the memory, and she laughed. “Believe me, I was tempted.” The man put theTin temptation. She pushed away her nearly done salad and rubbed her temples. “This has gotten so out of control.”
“It’s hardnotto be out of control with a man like Gabriel,” Natasha said. “But that doesn’t mean it’s a bad thing. And based on everything I’ve seen, I think he feels the same. I know he’s not planning to stay, but I really hope things work out between you two. You seem so happy, and it would be a shame to just give it up without giving the relationship a chance.”
“I was happy before he came to town.”But you’re happier now,her inner voice countered. She wanted to refute it but couldn’t. Serenity took a peek at her watch. “I need to head back and get ready for the afternoon crowd.” She fished some bills out of her purse, put them on the table, and stood. She gave both women a brief hug. “I’ll see you later.”
“Okay,” Natasha said. “And think about what I said.”
