Randi’s eyes darted away from where Eden was sitting. She met Cari’s gaze. “Am I not being attentive to you?”
“Yes, but you keep looking over at Eden and her date.”
Randi shrugged. “I just want her to have a good time.” She glanced over at Cari. “I want you to have a good time, too,” she quickly added.
“I am,” Cari assured her. “I’m staying at my sister’s along with her husband and two little kids. It’s fun, but there’s a lot going on.” She chuckled. “It’s nice to get out in a relaxed atmosphere and kick back.”
“If I’d asked you out, would you still be relaxed?”
Cari grinned. “Well played. I know I tease you a lot, but it’s just my way… Sometimes I feel very awkward.”
“Really? It certainly doesn’t show in your books or with your characters.”
“Yeah, I can write them the way I want to be. That’s easier than being in the real world.”
Randi nodded. “Yeah, why does it have to be so hard?”
“We’re all looking for connection, don’t you think? Whether it’s friends or something more. I don’t know.” Cari shrugged. “I do feel very comfortable with you.”
Randi smiled. “I’m glad. You keep me on my toes though.”
Cari laughed.
“I see movement around the stage,” Randi said. “Maybe the music is about to start.”
“Should I buy you a margarita?” a voice said from behind Randi.
Randi whipped her head around and saw Kelly standing at her shoulder. She widened her eyes.
Kelly smiled and continued. “I saw you come in with Eden and I’m pretty sure it isn’t a coincidence that you’re here. I remember how you gushed about her during your pitch.”
“As only a best friend could do,” Cari interjected.
“That’s why I’m offering to buy you a drink.”
“Uh, Kelly, this is Cari DeWare,” Randi said.
“It’s nice to meet you,” Cari said. “I was at that pitch event and it only seems smart to have someone you trust nearby when meeting someone you don’t know.”
Kelly smiled and nodded. “I agree, that’s why?—”
“Are you joining us?” Eden said, appearing at Randi’s other shoulder with a big smile.
“What?”
“I came over to invite you both to join us at our table,” Kelly explained. “The music is about to start.”
“I don’t want to intrude on your date,” Randi said.
“You’re not,” Kelly replied. “The more the merrier. My friends are at our table and we have room for you and Cari.”
Randi could see the hopeful look on Eden’s face and looked over at Cari and shrugged. “What do you think?”
“It’s okay with me,” Cari said.
“Yay!” Eden bounced on her toes. “Let’s go.”
“Are you sure?” Randi asked Cari as they followed Eden and Kelly to their table.
