“There’s nothing to spill.” Lane picked up the clipboard and pointed a pencil at the painting. “What do I put down for that painting?”

Meagan waited a second longer and then gave up. They may have shared secrets when they were Noah’s age, but those days of sisterly conspiracy had ended when Meagan met and exceeded their parents’ expectations of the ideal daughter.

“This painting doesn’t have a tag.” Meagan turned the painting over. “I don’t know where it came from.”

“It’s nice.” Lane peeked over her sister’s shoulder at the ocean piece. A bright yellow orb kissed the horizon, sending out bold rays of red, orange, and peach that stretched into a sky fading in twilight. “Who’s the artist?”

“I don’t see a name. Anything on the packaging?”

Lane looked at the box. “Nope.” Hmm, that’s weird. “There’s not even a shipping label or stamp.”

“Someone must’ve delivered it then. Local place, I’m sure. I’ll just add it to the rest.” The alarm on Meagan’s cell phone beeped. “Perfect timing. I’ll send Ian to pick these up after he drops the kids off at their art class. Can I put you down as a plus-one?”

“I already told you I’m not sure if I’m coming. Besides, what makes you think he’d want to come with me?”

“Ask him tonight on your date.”

“Pops!”

“You’re going on a date?” Meagan squeaked.

Lane groaned. “No. We’re going to the benefit for Sydney’s family tonight.”

“Is he picking you up?” Meagan quirked an eyebrow.

“It’s across the street at the park. We’re walking there.”

“But together.”

“If you don’t leave, you’ll be the mom who forgot to pick up her kids from school.” As far as Lane was concerned, the conversation was over. It was bad enough she still hadn’t sorted through her feelings for the handsome deputy who “all the PTA moms are talking about,” but the idea that Meagan’s inquisition might be only the beginning of the chatter that her and Charlie’s presence together would cause made her head hurt.

“So, I’ll let Mom and Dad know you’ll be a plus-one for the barbecue.”

“What?” Lane’s gaze spun to her sister, who was smiling.

“Thought that’d bring you back.” Meagan grabbed her purse. “In all seriousness, we could really use a photographer for the event and it’ll be a good excuse to stay busy without Mom and Dad, you know, being Mom and Dad.”

Lane didn’t quite know how to respond to Meagan’s sudden understanding. The perfect wife, mother, and daughter lived a scheduled life, and helping Lane out wasn’t usually penciled in. But as her sister stood in the doorway watching her, Lane believed Meagan was being genuine.

“I’ll think about it.”