Connie Phelps’s husband left her years ago, and it had taken a long time for her to get over it. But if she was dating, things were definitely turning around for her.

“Stan’s a decent guy,” Vickie said, earning a surprised look from Rick. “What? You think I don’t know every ma... I mean, person in this town? Stan owned a little variety shop on Main Street for years—souvenirs and stuff. He was active on the festival committee, and supported St. Vincent’s children’s drive with a truckful of new toys every year.”

“Well, now he’s boinking Connie Phelps.” Rick sipped his ice tea and winked at Vickie.

“Oh, please. They’re both in their seventies. I think they’re a little too old for boinking, don’t you?”

“Victoria Pendergast.” Cecile set her glass down, her eyes wide. “You’re seventy yourself! Are you suggesting you’re too old for sex?”

If nothing else, she was old enough to worry about being too old for sex. The porch was oddly silent. Vickie looked around and found several other patrons staring at their table. Her eyes narrowed on Cecile.

“Gee, why don’t you shout that a little louder? I don’t think the people in the next town heard you.”

Rick laughed, pushing his chair back from the table. “I’m not quite as ancient as you ladies, but I can tell you I’m not planning on slowing down my sex life...” He stood. “Although finding a good man is taking longer than I’d like. I have to run. I’m meeting with a contractor about remodeling the kitchen.”

As the other diners resumed their conversations, Cecile put her hand on Vickie’s arm, her voice dropping to a whisper.

“Sweetie, I know it’s been...a while...since you’ve had a relationship, but trust me, you don’t have to age out of enjoying sex. It just gets...different.” Cecile sat back. “Wait...why are you worried about this? Are you seeing someone?”

Her thoughts strayed to Gordy just long enough to pique her friends’ interest. Now it was Maura who was on the edge of her seat.

“Ooh... Cecile, I think you’re onto something. That’s definitely Vickie’s I’ve got a secret face. What have you been up to, and why haven’t you told me about it? I’m your bestie, remember?” Vickie kicked herself, because Maura’s voice was teasing, but there was a flash of hurt in her eyes. They’d been best friends since their school days.

“I’m not seeing anyone.” Her eyes closed. Why was she talking about this? “You both know that Gordy Lexiter is building a new deck at my place, right?”