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ChapterThirty-Four
Ariana flipped through the paint samples. They all looked like the same color after staring at so many shades of cream for so long.
“It’s kind of fun picking everything for our new home,” Damon said.
“Let’s paint the kitchen yellow. If I have to look at cream ever again, I’m going to pass out.”
“We can think about it.”
She found the yellow samples. Much easier on the eyes.
He came over to her. “Why don’t we grab some lunch, and then we can come back and make a decision later?”
“Food sounds good, but I still won’t want to look at another shade of cream for the rest of my life.”
They made their way out of the paint store, and once in the car, Damon headed for the bar and grill.
Rita waved at them from across the restaurant and hurried over. “My two favorite customers.” She turned to the nearest table. “After you two, of course.” Then she ushered Ariana and Damon to a booth. “I’ll join you, unless you were planning a hot date.”
"Of course you can join us,” Damon said.
"We’d never turn down a meal with you.” Ariana patted the seat next to her.
“Perfect. I’ll be right back.” Rita rushed away and spoke with a manager before returning with three drinks — nonalcoholic.
Ariana glanced between the beverages and Rita. “Just soda?”
She cleared her throat and leaned closer, lowering her voice. “You know?”
“We do. So do Lia and Charles.”
Rita blew out a long, slow breath.
“It’s true?” Ari asked.
“Yeah.”
“Who’s the father?”
Damon nudged her.
She nudged him back.
“You don’t have to talk about it if you don’t want to,” Damon said.
“It’s a story for another day.” Rita leaned back and spoke louder. “It’s a good thing you two didn’t get here an hour ago. We actually had a waitlist — in the middle of the day.”
“You’re famous now,” Ariana said. “Everyone up and down the west coast knows your name.”
She sighed. “I suppose that’s one thing I can thank Boone for.”
“Have you heard any updates on his case?” Damon asked.
“Only that the judge denied his request for bail again.”
“That’s a good sign.”
“He’s accused of kidnapping, attempted murder, blackmail, and arson,” Rita said. “That’s hardly child’s play. And Mitch is singing like a canary, turning state's evidence for a reduced sentence.”
