Page 110 of Three Girls Gone

“She said yes,” Libby burst out.

“Congratulations.”

“Thank you.”

“You know the family is having a gathering tonight at my mother’s. You and Penny are welcome to join.”

“I’d love that. Let me talk to her.”

“Sure. Six, if you can make it. There will be food and drink, so there’s no need to bring anything. I’ll text you the address.”

“Thanks.” Libby hung up, and Amanda started pecking out the message to her when her phone rang.

She took a deep breath upon seeing the name Carter Paulsen and answered, “Dr.Paulsen.”

“Huh. I thoughtIwas Dr.Paulsen,” he said, a smile lighting the line.

“A smart-ass, I see.”

“Just to confirm, this is Detective Steele?”

“Amanda,” she clarified.

“I see. Well, that correction makes my question easier to ask. I was wondering if you’d like to go out for a coffee sometime?”

She could think of a million reasons to turn him down, including her job and Zoe. But Carter was a doctor. He’d understand unpredictable working hours. But she may be getting carried away. Friends went out for coffee. No big deal. And even though there was the promise of a new beginning, she’d take life one day at a time. “Sure. Why not?”

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