Seconds later, a shrill wolf whistle sounded from inside, followed by a muffled scream. He was grinning by the time Bird squawked out his invitation: Hey, sugar,
buy you a drink? Here's looking at you, kid.
When Bird began to sing a chorus of
There Is Nothing like a Dame,
the children collapsed into fits of laughter.
A few minutes later, Megan carried out a tray of drinks. Bird's voice followed her.
'Give me a kiss, and to that kiss a score!'
She arched a brow as she set the tray on the deck.
Bogart, show tunes and poetry.
That's quite a bird.
He has an eye for pretty women.
Nathaniel picked up a glass and downed half the contents. He scanned Megan, taking in the tidy French twist, the crisp blouse and slacks.
Can't say I blame him.
Aunt Coco says Nate needs a woman.
Alex smacked his lips over the tart
lemonade.
I don't know why.
To sleep with him,
Jenny said, and caused both Nathaniel and Megan to gape.
Grown-ups get lonely at night, and they like to have someone to sleep with. like Mom and Daddy do. I have my bear,
she continued, referring to her favorite stuffed animal.
So I don't get lonely.
Break time.
Nathaniel gamely swallowed his choke of laughter.
Why don't you
guys take Dog for a walk down by the water?
The i.e. met with unanimous approval. With war whoops and slapping feet, they raced off.
Kid's got a point.
Nathaniel rubbed the cold glass over his sweaty brow.
Nights
can get lonely.
I'm sure Jenny will lend you her bear.
Megan stepped away from him, as if studying the house.
It's a very nice plaoe, Nathaniel.
She flicked a finger over the
sassy petals of a pansy.
Homey.
You were expecting a crow's nest, some oilcloth?
She had to smile.
Something like that. I want to thank you for letting Kevin spend the day.
I'd say the three of them are working as a team these days.
Her smile softened. She could hear their laughter from behind the house.
Yes,
you're right.
I like having them around. They're good company.
He shifted on the deck, folding
his legs Indian-style.
The boy's got your eyes.
Her smile faded.