by Linda Wiken
“I have a wonderful fold-up table that would be perfect,” Beth offered. “It would be sort of dreamy with a flowing white lace tablecloth, which I just happen to have.”
“Oh, and I could bring candles with hurricane covers,” J.J. offered, getting into the spirit.
“Very glam,” agreed Evan. “Flowers. I’ll pick up a small floral centerpiece on my—on our way.”
Alison folded her arms. “It all sounds delightful but I think I’m the hostess this month and, although I do appreciate the input, I’d really like just an old-fashioned picnic table with an oilskin cloth that I’ll bring. It’s what my mom always used for our family picnics.”
Beth looked apologetic. “I tend to get carried away sometimes. I’m sorry, Alison. Not my month so not my place to take over. I look forward to a good old-fashioned picnic.”
“We all do,” J.J. added. “Your turn to host the dinner, your choice of cookbook, your choice of, well, everything. And I just wanted to thank you, Alison, for picking a cookbook this month with such wonderful photos. Summer Days and Balmy Nights is a real delight to thumb through.”
Alison smiled. “I did it just for you, J.J. But I do hope you’ve actually read through it and picked a recipe from it.”
J.J. made the sign of crossing her heart. “I always play by the rules, Alison. And I know that tomorrow will be most memorable.”
She caught the scarf that Evan threw to her. Hmm. An omen?
J.J. shivered even though the evening was unusually warm for May.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Linda Wiken is the author of the national bestselling Ashton Corners Book Club Mysteries under the pseudonym Erika Chase, and is the former owner of a mystery bookstore.
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