She had a little over an hour to make a potato salad—with diced bacon and boiled eggs—shower, change, and book a cab so her and Nicole would arrive at Paula’s by six.

“Hey, honey, I’m home,” Kelly called out when she didn’t spot Nicole.

The sound of water running alerted her to where Nicole was. Kelly banged on the bathroom door. “Save some hot water for me.”

“I can’t hear you,” Nicole retorted.

Chuckling, Kelly dumped her backpack in her room, tied her hair back, and headed for the kitchen.

At quarter to six, a taxi pulled into the driveway. The driver sat on the horn, even though he could see Kelly and Nicole rushing toward the door.

“Impatient twat,” Kelly grumbled under her breath.

If it was customary to tip in New Zealand this guy would need an attitude adjustment. Kelly didn’t receive tips but she sure as shit treated her customers with respect. She believed in treating others how she wished to be treated and that wasn’t like an inconvenience.

Balancing the potato salad in her lap, Kelly nudged Nicole with her elbow. “Everything okay? You’re awfully quiet.”

After shooting a quick glance at the cab driver, who was paying them no attention, Nicole replied, “Even though I shouldn’t care what your missus or her friends think of me, I guess I’m a little nervous. I want to make a good impression, for your sake.”

The declaration warmed Kelly’s heart. She squeezed Nicole’s hand. “You’ll be fine. As long as you stay out of the bedrooms.”

The comment made at Kelly’s own expense, earned her a smile.

After paying the cab fare, Kelly took the potato salad from Nicole and led the way up the pathway alongside Paula’s house.

Laughter and soft voices grew louder as they rounded the corner. Five women were lounging around on the back deck.

Three sat in padded deck chairs, their backs to the sun. Paula and Ashleigh were leaning against the railing, glasses in hand, legs crossed at the ankles.

The second Paula spotted Kelly and Nicole, she strolled across the deck. Kelly’s heart skipped a beat, Paula looked damn good. The yellow sundress she wore was simple yet elegant. It complimented her blonde locks and hugged her curves.

As soon as Kelly’s foot hit the top step, Paula greeted her with a chaste kiss. She tasted like wine and summer.

“It’s good to see you. I’ve missed you this week.”

“Me too,” Kelly replied honestly. “Sorry about last weekend.”

Paula held up a hand silencing her. “Let’s not ruin the mood.” She smiled brightly and turned to Nicole. “Come and meet everyone. I’ll introduce you. Kelly can put the food in the fridge and get you a drink.”