“Sounds good.” Kristin’s gaze lingered and at that moment Annie had to ask herself exactly how benign this crush was. If she introduced Kristin to Rita, maybe she could help her decide.

Caitlin joined them again and throughout the conversation Annie couldn’t shake the thought of her and Kristin working side by side in the small space of the charity kitchen.

After Kristin had left with Mia, Caitlin looked around the shop. “It’s so great that this place has been saved. Jo loves it.”

“I can’t tell you how pleased I am,” Annie replied. “All hail to Kristin.”

“And Mia,” Caitlin said. “I believe it was her idea?”

“Yes, er yes, of course. And Mia.” Annie’s cheeks flushed.

“Just a heads-up.” Caitlin took a step closer to Annie and lowered her voice. “I know for a fact that Kristin and Sheryl are monogamous. You can flirt all you want, but it’s never going to happen.”

That flush on Annie’s cheeks turned into a raging fire. “Excuse me?”

“I have a nose for these things. You were flirting with Kristin a little less subtly than you might believe. It’s all in the non-verbal communication.”

Annie had no clue what to say. “I—I’m not—” she stuttered.

“Your secret is safe with me. Just tone it down a little. And accept that it’s never going to happen.” Caitlin shrugged. “Their loss for being monogamous, of course.” She cocked her head. “I take it you’ve read my book on the topic and know all about my stance?”

“I’m married,” Annie blurted out.

“So?” Caitlin said.

“I think you might have the wrong idea about me. Kristin and I are business partners. That’s it.”

“Sure. Whatever you say.” Caitlin looked her in the eye.

Annie had imagined her introduction to Caitlin James going a bit differently than what was happening now. She knew all about Caitlin’s views on monogamy and how it was just another man-made, patriarchal ploy to keep women in check. Annie’s viewpoint was as opposite to that as it could get. She had never even conceived of the notion. In their twenty years together, she and Jane had never discussed the topic as though it could ever pertain to their lives. Besides, this didn’t have anything to do with Kristin. Even if they were all in open relationships, they couldn’t very well all start wife-swapping. What would be the next step? A Pink Bean/Annie’s Book Shop commune where everything, from coffee, to books, to bodies, was shared?

“I really don’t appreciate the tone you’re taking with me.” Annie wasn’t one for letting anyone—even Caitlin James—walk all over her.