Quot;We offered to help!" Kerry exclaimed, sending new laughter to Blake's flushed cheeks, but everyone knew it was all in good humor.

Canton raised her glass to Kerry and Blake. "Well, you two-" she turned to Randi, "three, were absolutely integral to making my homes come to life." Glasses clinked all around, followed by "Here, here!"

Quot;Well, this has been a blast ladies, but Kerry and I have a nine o'clock film to catch," Blake said, scooting back from the table, ready to make his leave.

Quot;We arenotleaving without helping clean up, Blake," Kerry insisted, also scooting back, but began to gather plates as she did.

"Isolike her," Randi stage-whispered to Canton, Blake rolling his eyes.

Quot;So do I. She's definitely good wife stock," Canton played along.

Quot;I agree! I can easily imagine her - baby in tow - finishing up with dinner and making Blakey do the dishes," Randi said, staring off into a seen future.

"What a wonderful idea!" Canton quickly agreed. Both burst into laughter as Blake and Kerry were each turning seven shades of red. "Go to your movie, you two!" Canton exclaimed, waving the teens off. "We'll get this."

Randi pointed a finger at them both. "Thistime!"

Quot;Okay, okay," Blake muttered, shepherding Kerry out of the house.

Canton and Randi stood side by side, watching them go. Canton placed an arm around Randi's waist, Randi resting her head against Canton's shoulder. "Well, dear," Canton joked, "I think our little boy is growing up."

"Sigh," Randi returned, both chuckling. "Come on, you. Let's clean up."

An hour later, they sat in front of a gorgeous fire in the rock fireplace in the sitting room. Randi was curled up in a wingback drinking a mug of coffee with a shot of Grand Marnier while Canton reclined on the chaise lounge, her mug in hand. Randi stared into the flames, a soft smile curling her lips. Canton studied the graceful calm of Randi's face.

Date: 2015-02-28; view: 575