“Wait. Parker? I thought you were engaged to John.”
“Not anymore. Anyway, the wedding is on Saturday. Not tomorrow. The week after. Just wanted to let you know.”
“I’ll be there. As soon as we hang up, I’ll book a ticket. Have you told your mom?”
I debate how to answer the question. “Not yet.”
“I love you, Bluebonnet. And I can’t wait to see you. It’s about time I gave up acting like I’m not old.” His voice drops to a whisper. “I’m sorry for running away.”
“I understand. Not why you are dating someone so young, but I get the running away part. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying your newfound freedom.”
“Wasdating. That didn’t work out. I know, big surprise, right? Apparently, saying rad makes me uncool.”
I chuckle, happy I let him know about the wedding.
“My little Boo is getting married.” He sighs. “Love you. And I’ll see you in a few days.”
“Bye, Dad. Love you too.” I end the call. “He’s coming.”
“You have a few days to think about how you want to handle your mom. And if you want her to come, I can babysit that day. I’ll keep her out of trouble and get her to zip her mouth when she tries to run you down.”
“You mean if she tries to talk.”
“Yeah. Pretty much.”
* * *
In a little boutique,Paisley holds up a dress. “Ooooh look at this one.”
Off-white lace covers a bisque-colored bodice.
“It’s stunning.” This wedding is starting to feel very real now that I’m shopping for dresses with my best friend.
“Isn’t it? Elegant but not fussy. Try it on.” She pushes the hanger toward me.
Looking at the dress, I admire the sleek lines and how the skirt flares a bit at the bottom. “I hope it’s not too low cut.” I spend so much of my life in a T-shirt and jeans. It isn’t that I don’t like dresses, but they aren’t practical work attire.
“You won’t know until you try it.” Paisley gives me a look that I’m sure her kids see multiple times a week.
“You are getting good at the mom look.” I roll my eyes before turning to head to the changing room.
Laughter rings out behind me as I go.
After sliding out of my jeans and pulling off my shirt, goose bumps erupt on my arms. It’s not really all that chilly in here. Maybe it’s just nerves.
Once the dress is on, I stand in front of the mirror. It’s a perfect fit, almost like it had been tailored just for me. And it is a little low in front, but not embarrassingly so. After a deep breath, I step out to let Paisley have a look.
She gasps. “Please tell me you like this dress.”
Nodding, I press a hand to my stomach, then smooth the fabric over my hip.
“Parker will be rendered speechless, and we all know he’s never lacking for something to say.” She pulls me into a hug. “Have I mentioned how happy I am that you’re marrying my brother?”
She knows the wedding isn’t because of a romantic relationship, but it’s nice that she’s supportive.
“I hope he does like it. Even though we weren’t dating, the marriage isn’t a sham. I hope you know that. I care about Parker, and I hope one day, we’ll love each other.” My chest tightens hearing the words out loud. “But I’m not expecting it. Please don’t say anything about that part.”
She clasps my hand. “I’m confident that the two of you will figure it out.”
