“I think it started as a joke between Zoya and Caitlin that Caitlin would take her place once Zoya left, but the idea seems to have gained traction since. Obviously it wouldn’t be called The Zoya Das Show anymore.” Kristin gave a half-smile.

“I can’t believe you know Zoya Das,” Annie said. Kristin’s appeal was growing by the minute.

“She’s just a person like the rest of us. Someone who got her heart broken, had to put herself back together, and found love again. Having your face on TV doesn’t change anything about the more mundane facts of life.”

“I guess not.” Was Annie being scolded by Kristin for admiring Zoya Das and her connection to her?

“We’re all so obsessed with fame and gossip columns and celebrities, while none of it means a thing. Yet, when Angelina Jolie leaves Brad Pitt, it’s breaking news.” Kristin shook her head. “I told Caitlin to have a good hard think about appearing on television on a weekly basis, although she can probably handle it.” Finally, a smile. “She was pretty famous in the States. My guess is she misses the attention. Some people are born for the spotlight. I think Caitlin is one of them, and I would definitely watch her show.”

“As would I.” Annie couldn’t help but notice a shift in the energy balance between her and Kristin. Or perhaps she was overly sensitive to the tone of Kristin’s voice, and picked up more nuance than was intended. Annie glanced at Caitlin, who looked to still be in the middle of an animated conversation. “Jane and I are still raving about that poussin you made. We should have you and Sheryl over for dinner soon, although I can’t promise the same culinary standards.”

“Everyone always says that to me.” Kristin chuckled. “Even though I’ve never been disappointed by the food any of my friends have served me.”

“You set a high bar.” Annie would discuss this dinner party with Jane soon. She wanted to serve Kristin a meal so she could be upgraded to friend status.

Kristin waved off her comment, but gave a bashful smile nonetheless. “Lou told me about the charity kitchen you and her mother volunteer at. I’ve been meaning to ask you about it. I’d like to do something like that. Now that I have Mia and she has everything rolling like clockwork, I’d like to contribute to society more. I have the time, I might as well use it.”

To Annie’s infatuated ears this sounded like the most beautiful piece of music ever composed “Of course. We can always use more volunteers. Rita, Lou’s mother, and I help out every Tuesday evening. How about you join us next Tuesday?” Annie sat up a little straighter and it was difficult to wipe that grin off her face.