“Law talked to Jordan. They’ve both made it clear that I won’t be alone other than to pee.”
“It’s not something to joke about.”
Grae leaned across the console and brushed her lips against mine. “Humor is how I cope, remember?”
I kissed her again. “And Roan’s picking you up?”
“Yup. I’ll call you if that changes.”
I forced myself to release her and leaned back in my seat. “Check in, okay? It’ll make me feel better.”
“I can do that. You just focus on the retreat and the gala. People will be arriving soon.”
Grae was right. I needed my head in the game. Jalen and I needed to go over a million details. “I’ve got it covered.”
She grinned as she slid out of my SUV. “I know you do. But I won’t mind getting the play-by-play of when you make Gabe eat his words.”
I chuckled. “I’ll see if Jalen can get a video.”
Grae waved and headed into the office. I waited until I saw her safely talking to Noel before I pulled onto the street. Even knowing they were looking out for her, driving away was brutal. As if I were leaving all my internal organs outside my body. But I forced myself to do it anyway.
* * *
Our event planner,Erika, moved around one of the four tables in the great hall. “This is option one. I’m calling it our traditional look.”
The settings were exactly what you’d expect for a gala: gleaming silver, crystal glassware, and white china. Boring and expected.
“This is exactly what we need,” Gabe said, nodding at her.
Erika gave him a polite smile. “I’m glad you like it, but we’ve got three other options for you to consider.”
Gabe scowled. “If you want to waste our time, fine.”
“Now, Gabe,” Mom chided. “Erika has put a lot of work into this. Let’s see what else she’s come up with.”
Erika smiled at my mom. “Over here is more of an art deco look.”
That table had a black-and-white motif with pops of color. It was more interesting, but I didn’t think it fit with the feel of the resort.
“This would be fun, and Clara did love bright colors,” Mom said wistfully. “But it might be more fitting for our Miami property.”
Erika nodded. “I can see that.”
My phone buzzed, and I pulled it out of my pocket. A photo filled the screen. It was a selfie of Grae in her kayak.
Gigi
No attempted kidnappings by any otters to report.
I shook my head, but a grin played on my lips.
“That wouldn’t be Grae, would it?” Pleasure swirled in my mom’s voice.
I looked up from my phone. “How’d you know?”
“Because you only ever smile like that when she’s around.”
My eyes flared.
