Before We Kiss (Fool's Gold #14)(28)

“Four kids is a lot,” Ryan said.

“But wonderful,” Fayrene added, thinking they needed to be talking about how great it was to be married and have a family. “They must bring you a lot of happiness.”

“They do,” Pia said with another yawn. “The age difference is challenging. Mostly because it’s in Peter’s nature to help and I don’t want his childhood to be about taking care of the twins or his baby brother.” She looked at Raoul. “He’s a great kid. We got so lucky with him.”

“With all our kids,” her husband said, then kissed her forehead.

Fayrene knew that Peter was adopted and that the twins weren’t theirs biologically, either. Ryder was the first child they had together.

Raoul turned to Ryan. “You work for Ethan,” he said. “I’ve been hearing about the modifications you’re making on the wind turbine designs. Innovative thinking.”

“Thanks. I like my work.”

The two couples talked about what was going on in Fool’s Gold these days.

“I’m hearing that the town is annexing more of the surrounding areas,” Pia said, then covered another yawn. “Someone told me that the Nicholson ranch will be within city limits now. At least the acreage with the house on it. I remember Zane Nicholson from high school. He was in my class.” She smiled at her husband. “He was very popular with the ladies, just like you.”

“As long as I don’t have competition with him now.”

Pia smiled. “You don’t.” She set her glass on the coffee table and leaned against her husband. “How’s your business, Fayrene?” she asked.

“I’m busy.”

“That’s good,” Pia murmured. “The wine was nice. Did I mention I haven’t had wine in over a year?”

As she spoke her eyes drifted closed. Fayrene waited for her to say something else, only to realize that her guest had fallen asleep. Pia’s breathing deepened and her body relaxed. Raoul glanced down and grinned.

“It’s the kids,” he murmured. “Keeping her up too many nights.” He paused awkwardly. “I’m sorry but I think we’re going to have to take a rain check on our dinner. I really should get her home and in bed.”

Fayrene involuntarily glanced at the clock. It was six. Barely evening. She looked at Ryan, who seemed just as startled.

“Come on, sleepyhead,” Raoul said gently, shifting Pia into a sitting position. “Let’s get you home.”

“What? Did I fall asleep?” Pia flushed. “I’m so sorry. It’s just everything going on. You know—three kids under four—it’s challenging.” She shook her head. “I’m fine. Really. Can I have a cup of coffee? Then I’m sure I can stay awake through dinner.”

“You don’t have to,” Fayrene told her. “You should go home and sleep.”

Pia hesitated, then stood. Raoul did the same and put his arm around her.

“If you don’t mind, we’d love to take a rain check on dinner.” She yawned again, then leaned against her husband. “Thanks for understanding.”

Ryan held Caramel as he and Fayrene ushered out their guests. When the door had closed, Fayrene leaned against the wall. So much for showing Ryan how wonderful marriage could be. It was barely six in the evening and the Moreno family was in for the night.

Ryan handed her Caramel, then put his arm around her. “So,” he said with a grin. “What’s for dinner?”

* * *

DELLINA STRETCHED OUT on the chaise and sipped her margarita. The sun was warm and she was with friends. Talk about a great way to spend an afternoon. Besides, she was with the right group to get information.

They were in Taryn’s beautiful walled garden. Taryn was next to her in another chair while Larissa was on Dellina’s other side. A couple of big umbrellas shaded them and there was a light breeze. Taryn had promised Angel would be by later with snacks. As Dellina hadn’t had an afternoon off, let alone a day, in about three weeks, she was going to soak up every second of this before she had to throw herself back into the Score party.

The good news was everything was coming together. The bad news was, she didn’t know if she should be worried about having Lark Heuston lecture or not.

“You two have met Sam’s mother,” Dellina began. “He’s totally freaked about her coming to the event. Should I be concerned?”

Taryn leaned forward to look past her toward Larissa. “You want to go first or should I?”

“You go,” Larissa told her. “You know her better than me.”

Taryn leaned back in her chair. “I love her breathing techniques. I use them all the time.”

“Me, too,” Larissa said. “They help me relax.”

“I use them for sex,” Taryn murmured, then sipped her drink.

Dellina opened her mouth, realized she had nothing to say, then closed it.

“The thing is,” Taryn continued, “Reggie and Lark are really sweet people. They love their kids and are generous to everyone they meet. They just don’t have regular privacy boundaries. They’re open, affectionate people.”

“Who share everything,” Larissa added.

“They do,” Taryn said. “I’ve met Sam’s sisters and they’re just like his folks. Sweet and funny, but they’ll tell you anything. Sometimes it’s okay and sometimes it’s a little weird.”