Shane goes back to her tomato slicing. “Did you have any trouble finding the place?”

“No, Jenny’s directions were flawless. Can I get you a beer?”

“I’m all set right now.” Shane says concentrating on her task.

Harper grabs one for herself then joins Shane. She leans against the counter watching Shane’s slender fingers. “Can I help?” She asks twisting the top from her bottle.

Shane looks up and through her bangs, “No.” She smirks. “Guests just have to sit back and relax.”

“Sounds good to me.” Harper smiles.

Jenny pops her head in the kitchen. “Shane, are you almost done? I don’t wanna touch the meat.”

“I still have a bunch of these to cut.”

“I’ll finish those up if you’ll deal with the meat.” Jenny says.

“Why don’t you let me help you Jenny. I happen to be a master griller.” Harper says.

“Really? That would be great because we don’t know what we’re doing.”

“Alright, then show me what you got.” Harper follows Jenny outside.

Everyone sits around the candle lit table stuffed and satisfied. Tina leans against Bette. Alice and Dana sit holding hands. Jenny curls up in her chair. And Shane tries very hard not to sit and stare at Harper.

“I don’t think I can move.” Tina says holding her pregnant belly. “That was amazing.”

“In deed.” Bette says holding her wine glass up for a toast. “To good food and good friends.”

Everyone leans in, clinking bottles and glasses, repeating after Bette. “To good food and good friends.”

“I need to go soak my feet in the pool. Who wants to join me?” Tina says slowly standing up.

“Ooooh that sounds good.” Jenny says.

“Why don’t you two go relax,” Alice points at Jenny and Shane while she stands and starts collecting plates. “Dana and I will clean up.”

Everyone starts getting up. Tina has already begun her waddling journey to her backyard.

“I’ll help too.” Harper says picking up her plate.

Shane leans over and takes the plate. “I’m afraid I can’t let you do that.”

“Come on Harper.” Jenny says motioning for her to walk with her.

Harper gives Shane a look before she walks away. Shane just raises her eyebrows and smiles.

Alice waits long enough for Harper to be out of earshot. “What was that?”