His voice dropped to a growl, a tone she recognized all too well. “I said—”
But she was so over bowing to his moods. “I’ve gotta wonder how a high school principal failed to notice those boys were trouble. I’ve gotta wonder about your priorities, Jason, and your judgment.” She strangled the phone. “I’ve gotta wonder if I should interrupt my vacation and come get our kids.”
“Your vacation? Where are you?”
“At the beach house, of course, since your last-minute surprise stuck me with the bill.”
“You went by yourself?” Why did he sound so incredulous? Did he think she’d just mope around Tacoma for two weeks?
She swiped a hand down her face. Okay, she’d nearly done that, but things had changed. She’d changed.
His voice softened. “Well, good. I’m glad you’re able to enjoy it. And I’ll deal with this mess. See you on the sixth.” Not quite an apology, but further parental warfare would only hurt the kids.
Her mood spoiled, she disconnected the call, heaved a weary sigh, and gathered her things. As she drove back to the rental house, the sunshine reached that glorious, golden, early-evening hue. She had barely enough time to shower and finish dinner, now simmering in a Crockpot. Thank the gods Trappers Cove’s little food co-op had all the ingredients: a whole chicken, a good dry red, and fresh herbs. It was her turn to spoil Matteo with a home-cooked meal—and in other, creative ways.
She pulled onto her street and stomped on the brakes. “What the…?”
Someone was lounging on her deck! Three someones, in fact. Cari, Laurie, and Marie popped to their feet and waved, all three wearing neon fabric leis and goofy sunglasses. Paper cups and a half-empty wine bottle sat on the rim of the fire pit.
“Surprise!” They thundered down the steps, arms waving like a middle-aged cheer squad.
Danielle parked in the driveway behind Laurie’s SUV. Cari yanked open the door, pulled Danielle to her feet, and enveloped her in a squishy hug.
“I thought you were all tied up this weekend,” Danielle squeaked.
Marie popped a lei over Danielle’s head. “Our friend needed us. Girls’ party weekend!”
“You have this big house to yourself, so we’re having a slumber party.” Laurie poked neon-pink sunglasses into Danielle’s face. “We brought lots of wine and snacks.”
“And fancy face masks,” Cari added, tugging her up the deck stairs. “Plus a little something special just for you.” She winked, and all three giggled.
Marie dug in her enormous purse and handed over a gift-wrapped box. “Open it!”
“No, she needs wine first.”
Danielle scrubbed both palms down her face and sank into a chair. “Guys, this is really sweet, but—”
Laurie shoved a brimming cup of rosé into her hand. “Drink up! We’re way ahead of you.”
No shit. Stifling a groan, she gulped her wine, opened the package, and pulled out a purple silicone dildo.
“It’s called the Unicorn,” Cari explained. “See, it’s got separate controls for this part and this part.” Leaning over Danielle’s shoulder, she pressed a button, and the gizmo buzzed and writhed. All three friends shrieked with laughter.
Laurie clapped her on the shoulder. “Meet your new boyfriend.”
Boyfriend!Panic seized her, and she fumbled for her phone. She had to warn Matteo.
Cari whistled. “Ooh là là. Who’s this?”
She whirled to find him at the gate, clutching a bouquet and a bottle of wine. He shot her a quizzical look, then flashed a dazzling smile, climbed the stairs, and kissed her cheek. “Friends of yours?” he whispered.
She nodded.
“Were you expecting them?” She shook her head.
“Well then.” He set down his load and wound his arm around her waist.
She gulped. “Guys, meet Matteo.”