Page 50 of The Dating Pact

“But it’s your turn next, Joy,” Indie said. “Don’t think we’ve forgotten that.”

“Oh, I’m sure you haven’t. I’m counting down the days until you guys set me up.” Joy grinned. “Bring on all the men!”

Joy and the boys stayed for a while, first admiring the trees in my living room and then moving on to the books in my library. I lost track of them after that because once seven o’clock hit, wave after wave of children stormed the house. The younger kids arrived first, all doe-eyed and excited about being out at night and wearing costumes. Then the older elementary kids came, fueled by adrenaline and the ambition to collect their own body weight in candy.

Quinn, Indie, and I scrambled all night, taking turns running the cotton candy machine, handing out treats, and chatting with parents in passing. Most families came to admire the decorations and grab candy, but a handful stayed the entire night to watch theHarry Pottermovie on the screen set up in front of my garage.

It wasn’t until nine o’clock rolled around that I realized how quickly time had passed.

“Can you believe we blew through ten huge bags of candy?” Indie said as we cleaned up and helped Quinn pack up the projector. “I thought we’d have to start handing out canned soup and coffee.”

“The parents might have appreciated that.” Quinn finished wrapping the extension cord around her arm and neatly tied it together. “It’s been a while since I’ve celebrated Halloween. I’d forgotten how much fun it can be. Thanks for inviting me tonight.”

The three of us carried the projector, cables, and speakers back to the garage. “By the way, what are you doing with Wyatt for your date?” Quinn asked.

With everything else going on, I’d completely forgotten to follow up on the details. “Something fun. And memorable. I’m taking him to the ranch.”

“Isn’t that where he’s staying?” Quinn’s brows drew together in a frown. “How’s that memorable?”

“Wyatt hasn’t seen everything the ranch has to offer yet.” Indie gave her a knowing look. She must have guessed my plan.

“So you’re taking him to see the view from your favorite hill?” Quinn asked.

“And to meet some of our native wildlife,” I said.

Quinn’s mouth formed into a perfect O.

With a grin, I pulled out my phone.

Me:You free tomorrow night?

Wyatt:Why?

Me:I’ll pick you up around five

Me:Get ready for one of the best things Sunnyvale has to offer

Wyatt:Can’t wait!