Everyone burst out laughing again, and Lou forgot about the dream, until the group dispersed and she found herself alone with Mia, hovering over the part of the table with the vegan snacks.

“I see Meredith has moved on,” Mia said.

“Looks like it, which means you’re off bodyguard duty.” Her arm bumped lightly into Mia’s and a flash of the dream came back to her—or was she making things up now? Mia’s face as it leaned in toward her, ready to kiss her. “I’m surprised she even made it here. She’ll probably get a call from work in ten minutes, leaving another poor woman disillusioned.”

“Is that what happened on the date?”

“Yes, on a Sunday evening.” Lou still couldn’t keep the indignation about that out of her voice. “I’m sorry. I’m truly not that upset about Meredith, it’s more that her actions evoked strong feelings about my ex and why we split.”

“Not enough time for you?”

“Not just me. For herself either.” Lou drank again. “But I don’t really want to talk about my ex. I’m at a party. I’d rather enjoy myself.”

“Anything I can do to enhance your enjoyment?” Mia’s bare arm slid against hers again. Was it the effects of the three glasses of wine Lou had knocked back in quick succession or was it still the dream that was haunting her? Lou felt something warm and fuzzy come to life in the pit of her stomach.

“Yeah, tell me something, Mia Miller.” Oh, it was definitely the alcohol. She should have one of those snacks soon. “How come you’re single? I’ve witnessed Daisy shamelessly flirt with you more than once at the Pink Bean. Objectively speaking, you’re a good-looking woman. And everyone here speaks so highly of you.”

“Objectively speaking, huh?” Mia said with a smile on her face. “I’m not really looking, you know. What’s wrong with being single?”

“There’s nothing wrong with it, but then it does make me wonder why, if you’re not looking, you’re on Tinder.”

Mia shook her head. “You got me.” She shrugged. “A friend of mine set it up for me when I was having a bad day. I flipped through some profiles.”

“All left swipes?” Lou inquired. “Nobody tickled your fancy at all?” Was she flirting? She’d better get herself in check.

“I wouldn’t say nobody.” Mia cocked her head.

“Pity you didn’t take a chance on Meredith. She literally told me she swiped right on you and she could only conclude you’d swiped left.”

“She told you?” Mia gave a chuckle. “Well, looks like I’m too late now.” They both glanced at Meredith who was engaged in a too passionate display of public affection.