Perfect fit! Tina modeled the cycling helmet for Bette, who simply rolled her eyes. Tina stuck her tongue out at her partner and nodded to Sadie. Well take it. Bette, have you found one yet? Bette held out a black helmet adorned with chili peppers. How about this one? Tina nodded her approval, and the two moved to the cash register. Sadie, business seems pretty good.

Sadie was indeed pleased with the Saturday crowd. Shed yet to move many bikes, but took it as a great sign that a steady flow of jerseys, socks and helmets were being bought. She had several customers, including Bette and Tina, ask about the beginners clinic shed advertised on her door as well as at The Planet. She was confident shed have a relatively large group for the inaugural ride the following weekend.

At 6:15, a hand tapped her shoulder and she looked around to find Lara standing there, with a bag of groceries. Hey Sadelooks like things are going well!

Sadie grinned and nodded. I cant believe the days almost done. She waved to Steve, and took Lara by the hand. Lets go upstairs, and Ill show you around the kitchen.

As they walked up the steps, Sadie thanked Lara for agreeing to cook at her place. The shop closes at 7:00. Ill be downstairs for a while locking up and stuffbut I should be upstairs at 7:30 or sois that cool?

Lara looked around the kitchen, locating pots and strainers and cooking utensils. Sounds goodI get nervous when people watch me cook, anyway.Now, all I need is some good cooking tunesyou got any Cajun music? I feel like some Beausoleil! The two had gone to New Orleans during Spring Break their senior year, and couldnt get enough of the zydeco sound.

As a matter of fact, Ive got just the thingever hear of The Zydeco Hounds? Sadie popped the CD in the stereo and the room was filled with the distinctive music.

Perfect! Im all setgo tend to your business, Thompson! Lara began rummaging through the bags.

*-*-*
Steve watched the last customer leave at 6:45. Sadie, I believe she had the perfect *****. Dont you agree?

Sadie laughed and tousled the mechanics bleach blond hair. Youre such a cretin! Im gonna clean upthanks for agreeing to stay til 7! She grabbed her clothes and ducked into the unisex bathroom. The back had been fitted with a shower, which Sadie put to good use. She cleaned up quickly, and styled her hair with a bit of gel and a quick blow dry. She pulled on a pair of light cotton drawstring pants, and a simple white sleeveless shell. She sprayed a little Cool Water and walked through the mist.

Fortunately, Marinas home was only a quick ten-minute walk. Sadie checked her watch, 7:05. Perfect! She grabbed Mias leash, whistled lightly and headed for the door.

*-*-*
Marina looked around the terrace with satisfaction, Perfect! She declared and slid the screen door closed. She arrived downstairs just as the doorbell rang. She opened the door to find Mia holding a bouquet of snapdragons softly in her mouth.

Mia! You shouldnt have! Come in! The dog pranced in, and Sadie slid into sight. Sadie, you look lovely.

Thanksso do you. Marina wore a pair of jeans, with a simple white shirt, unbuttoned enough to give Sadie a view of the lace bra underneath.

As Marina stepped to the side to let Sadie enter, Sadie realized Marina wore no shoes. She immediately doffed her sandals and scooted them by the door. Marina nodded appreciatively, I love being barefoot.

Marina took the snapdragons from Mia, and headed to the kitchen. Ive made some sangria, can I get you a glass?

Please. Sadie followed Marina looking around curiously at the spacious townhome. I love your place, Marinaits very Mediterranean. She noted a set of open-ended stairs that scaled the far wall. Pottery adorned the steps at even intervals. The floors were Spanish tile, and the walls were painted warm earthy tones.

So, how is your plan transpiring so far? Marina asked as she poured from a pitcher filled with the fruited wine.

So far, so goodI stopped by to see if Kit was ready, and she assured me she was on the lookout! Lar was cooking up a storm when I slipped out. Im thinking Danas going to be pretty pleased with the menu, if the aromas coming from my apartment are any match to the taste of the food! Speaking ofit smells great in here, too!

I thought wed have appetizers here at the bar, and then move up to the terrace for the main course and dessert. We can initiate the last phase of the plan from here, and then enjoy the sunset up there. I hope you like Spanish food.

Shoot the dog! I love Spanish food! Sadie noticed that Marina looked mildly horrified at her choice of speech. Sorryan old saying from homeId never really shoot a dog. She finished lamely, and quickly looked at her watch, eager to change the topic. 7:25! Is Dana a punctual girl?

Marinas phone rang. Kit ? Good. Ill tell her. Thanks. Marina hung up. She looked at Sadie and winked. Kit said to tell you, quote, The Eagle has Landed, end quote.

Sadie nodded. Perfect.

*-*-*
Dana stepped out of her car just as a gob of pigeon ***** hit the windshield. Perfect. She rolled her eyes. Just like my life right now! I cant believe I came tonight.I hope Sadie isnt trying to hook me up with anyone. Dana muttered under her breath.

I believe this is yours. A single red rose came into Danas line of vision.

Huh? Dana stepped back. A young boy of about eleven was standing in front of her, extending the rose.

This is yourskeep it, or give it to someone you care for.

Right. Dana smiled, Here, let me give you a dollar.

No. This is yours, its not for sale. The boy pressed the rose into Danas hand and walked down the sidewalk.

Dana watched the odd boy for a second, then shrugged and entered Sadies stairwell.

The boy turned into The Planet, where Kit high fived him, handed him twenty dollars and said, Perfect delivery!

The boy just shrugged and said, Girls are sooo weird.

*-*-*

When Sadies doorbell rang, Lara called out, Perfect timing, Thompson..did you forget your keys? She gave the noodles a quick stir, and went to the doorway. Remember how you always got locked out when. Her voice died away as she opened the door to find Dana standing there. The two women locked eyes in shock.

The sound of Laras cell phone didnt seem to register on either woman.
*-*-*

Sadie hung up and looked at Marina. Houston, we have a problem.

Marina just chuckled.

Im seriousLara isnt answering her phone.

Try Danas. Heres the number.

Sadie quickly punched in the numbers.

*-*-*
Lara cleared her throat just as Danas phone rang.

Dana, glad for the diversion, plunged into her pocket and came up with the flip phone. Hello?

Dana, hi, Sadiewhere are you?

At your door.

Ahacan you hand the phone over?

Wordlessly, Dana handed the phone to Lara.

Hello?

Lar- its Sade”

What the ***** are you up to, Sadie? Lara turned from Dana and growled into the phone.

I know youre mad, but youve got unfinished business with Danaand Im pretty sure shes got some unfinished business with you too.

Maybe, but youve got no right meddling in my life. Godyou never learn, do you?

Lara, remember that dinner party you gave five years ago, just before you moved? That was where I met Paige. That was one of the best things that ever happened to me, and I owe it to you. Now I know that Ive pushed it, but look at Dana, Lara.

Laras eyes turned back to the woman standing in the doorway, clutching a red rose, and watching Lara intently.

Lara dont let her walk away without letting her know how you feel. You owe yourself that.

Sadie flipped the phone shut.