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 kissed him.”

Serenity’s body tingled with the memory, and she laughed. “Believe me, I was tempted.” The man put the T in temptation. She pushed away her nearly done salad and rubbed her temples. “This has gotten so out of control.”