Madison strolled to the kitchen to get herself a glass of Kamikaze. In a hopefully conversational voice, she said, “You look good.” She filled the glass to the rim and placed the prepared decanter containing the cocktail mix back into the fridge. “The guys will buy that we’re a couple without a doubt.”

Sherry had started fidgeting once more, but she stopped now. “Why?”

Rita Mae got the last plate from the kitchen counter. “Your outfit is quite…revealing, I’d say.”

Sherry blushed even more.

She shouldn’t feel like she appears easy to get. Madison stepped up to her and took Sherry’s chin between her thumb and forefinger and lifted it until their gazes met. “It’s because you’re exactly my type. Not because your dress is short, but because you look breathtaking.”

Sherry stared at her own heels. “Thank you,” she said quietly. “Your clothes are nice too.”

That’s not what Madison had said, but she decided not to comment on that. Instead, she glanced down at herself. Her favorite black slacks and her wine-red blouse were nothing fancy, but they were very popular with the ladies. And the outfit was comfortable. “Thanks.”

“Mom?”

Sherry stepped back, interrupting their contact. “Yeah, baby?”

Already in his jammies, Jake lumbered toward them. His eyes widened. “Wow, you look like a movie star.”

“Thanks, honey. Why are you still awake?”

Jake jumped up and down. “I’m so excited because of the party. Can I come too? I promise to behave.”

Sherry sighed. “I’ve told you, this is a party for adults.” Her ass stretched nicely under the tight dress when she bent to look him in the eyes. “If you go to bed now and sleep right away, I’ll tell you all about the party tomorrow. Deal?” She made him giggle by nudging the tip of his nose.

But then he sobered again.

Rita Mae rushed toward them and took his hand. “What do you say if I get ready too and you can sleep in my bed for once?”

Jake smiled, but the grin dimmed quickly. Had he just remembered her snoring?

Madison bit her lip to stop herself from laughing.

The doorbell rang, and Rita Mae pulled Jake into her room.

Madison drained her glass and slammed it on the counter. Showtime!

As soon as Rita Mae had dragged the pouting Jake into her room, Madison rushed to the door and turned to Sherry. “Just play along.”

Sherry’s heart was racing. During their evening with Mrs. Fielding, she had worn a short outfit too, but the one tonight was even shorter and her cleavage was much more prominent. No matter what Madison said, Sherry felt like a high-paid prostitute.

“Sherry, honey!” she shouted loud enough to be heard through the door and probably half of the floor.

Sherry scurried over to her.

Madison grabbed her hand and tore open the door. “Hi. Get in.”