She knew he wanted to change the subject, so she didn’t push. “How am I a problem?”

“At that dance you were the center of interest.”

“Me? That’s ridiculous. No one even noticed I was there.”

“That’s a joke, right? When I went in the front door, all I could hear was your name. People were speculating whether or not you are now single. I wouldn’t be surprised if they were laying bets.”

She held out her left hand. “While I’m wearing this thing?”

He took her hand and held it up to the light. “You don’t like this ring, do you?”

“No. It’s too gaudy and I have to take it off to work. It snags on things.”

“Like sheep’s uteruses?”

“Exactly.” She was smiling.

Adam let go of her hand. “The problem is that we know Vera won’t leave if you aren’t settled. So you have to go to all the—”

“Oh, no, you don’t! No more lone dances for me. Celeste is—” She broke off.

“A major bitch?”

“Yes, she is.”

Kelly put her empty plate on the stone-topped coffee table. “I need to go.” She nodded to the TV. “Little Joe isn’t my idea of a dreamboat. And I have to get up early tomorrow. Cages to clean. I’ll help you clear.”

“No need to. I’ll stick these in the dishwasher.” He stood up.

She walked to the front door, Adam behind her. “Would you help me remind Vera of something? On Friday at two o’clock she’s to meet me at the bridal shop in Lenexa.”

“Vera’s going with you?”

“It was either her or Mom and Forey. They’d start crying and I’d blab the truth.”

“You could go alone or—” He broke off at her expression. “I get it. Wedding dress. Girl thing. Maybe Celeste could go with you two.”

“You are so not funny.” She opened the door. “Just remind her, that’s all. I will, too, so maybe she’ll show up.”

He frowned. “I’ll get her there. Don’t worry. But maybe all this is too much. Maybe we should—”

“Tell the truth? No, thanks! I figure this is practice for my own wedding. I just need a groom.”

“That’s the hard part. You’re so ugly, with no talents. I’m sure no one will want to marry you.”

“I knew my dress should be shorter! But Robbie said I looked like something off Star Trek, so...” She shrugged.

Adam groaned. “For once I agree with my baby brother. That dress is plenty short enough.”

“Tony thought so.”

“Go home. Behave yourself.”

Kelly was backing toward her car. “Mind if I ride Xander tomorrow?”

“He’d love it.”

“Good night and thanks for dinner. And you owe me ice cream.” Smiling, she got into her car and drove away.