The Doctor And Mr. Right. Cindy Kirk

July was interested in stopping for dinner on our way home.”

      July’s expression turned thoughtful. She turned to Michelle. “Do you have plans for this evening?”

      “No,” Michelle said cautiously. “Why?”

      Her friend clearly had something up her sleeve. While Michelle didn’t know what it was, she had a feeling she would soon find out.

      “We could grill. It’s a beautiful evening. David could run to the store and get the steaks and beer.” July’s voice trembled with excitement. “You and I could whip up a salad while he’s gone.”

      “Sounds good to me.” David glanced at Michelle.

      The last thing Michelle wanted was for July and David to feel sorry for her. She’d already planned to have a simple dinner, finish the book she’d been reading and go to bed early. Unless, of course, she got called out for a delivery.

      “It does sound like fun, but this is your night without the kids.” Michelle reminded her friends. “You should spend it alone. Or with another couple. Not with me.”

      “Are you worried about being a third wheel?” July’s voice rose. “Seriously?”

      “If that’s your concern,” David exchanged a look with his wife. “I know how to remedy it.”

      Without saying another word, David headed down the deck steps and across the lawn with Sasha on his heels.

      “What is he—” The words died in Michelle’s throat as she watched him approach Gabe. “Dear God, tell me he’s not going to invite him to join us.”

      July popped a piece of cookie in her mouth. “Looks like it.”

      Thankfully, from the way Gabe was shaking his head, it appeared he wasn’t interested. Michelle expelled the breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding. But her relief was short-lived.

      David smiled and headed across the yard, calling over his shoulder. “Come over at six.”

      “What was that about?” July asked her husband when he reached the deck, slanting a sideways glance at Michelle.

      “I invited Gabe and his daughter to join us and they accepted,” David said with a smug smile.

      Gabe and his teenage daughter.

      In her house.

      Michelle swallowed a nervous laugh and realized feeling like a third wheel was now the least of her concerns.