Page 8 of Two Hearts' Subterfuge

“Is there anything that you haven’t thought of, Aylin?” Camille asked, definitely taken aback. “I’ll bet everything you’ve chosen is perfect. But yes we can stop by there this afternoon to make sure that nothing was forgotten.”

“I’m just glad there were fresh flowers available for your wedding,” Rene admitted as everyone began gathering their belongings to depart. “Between the charity event and the holiday, there’s usually a shortage—especially with holiday-themed flowers such as red roses and rubrum lilies.”

“I think the manager said something about Danielle Loughlin putting in a word for us,” Aylin admitted.

“No wonder.” Rene smiled, turning to Camille. “Have you met Danielle? She and her husband Jake own the Inn.”

“No. I’m sure that Mom and Dad have, otherwise we wouldn’t have been able to book our suite here at the Inn during the holidays—especially with that huge charity event going on tomorrow.”

“I’m not sure if you’ve ever heard of her because she was popular way before your time, but Danielle’s maiden name is Reardon, and she was once a Grammy winning vocalist. She still performs occasionally at the charity events.”

Aylin’s eyes went wide. “Wait a minute. Is Eve Loughlin herdaughter?I saw them perform together about five years ago when Eve had a concert in New Orleans.”

“She is,” Rene answered smiling. “I think that Eve Loughlin might even be here tomorrow.”

When Aylin’s jaw dropped, Desiree began laughing and soon everyone else joined in.

“Music used to be Aylin’s first love,” Desiree admitted. “Although it looks like clothing design has taken over.”

Aylin scrunched her nose, staring at Desiree. “Because I’m a terrible singer. I’ve always been so jealous of you and Marc, watching the two of you performing. It always looks so easy for both of you. You sound so good together too.”

“You and your husband are performers?” Rene asked. “Maybe you should add your name to Danielle’s list for tomorrow since you’re staying here at the Inn anyway. They’re always looking for additional entertainers for the charity event because it’s so close to Christmas and so many people have plans.”

“Our vocals aren’t even close to the caliber of the people performing tomorrow,” Desiree observed.

“Don’t you dare say that,” Aylin said firmly, stomping her foot. “Marc’s band won a major competition a few years ago and all of you performed with some pretty big names. They still go on tour too, even though they don’t do it full time.”

Rene winked at Aylin. Even though Desiree was trying to drop the subject, Aylin had a feeling that Danielle Loughlin was going to hear about Marc and Desiree anyway. Rene’s shop seemed to be a pit stop for all the Inn’s employees throughout the day, Aylin had noticed.

“Why don’t we plan on your next fitting the day after tomorrow on Christmas Eve morning?” Rene suggested. “Thenwe’ll have another twenty-four hours to correct anything we might have missed.”

“We’ll be here. Thank you so much, Rene,” Celine said as everyone filed through the doorway to exit the shop.

Lagging behind, Aylin reached for her purse, giving Rene a wide smile as she rushed to catch up. “See you later.”

“I’ll be here,” Rene answered, smiling.

Chapter Five

The following day, everyone in Ben’s family was home for brunch, preparing for the charity event which would officially begin at one o’clock this afternoon. Ben had spent hours supervising the viewing of the auction items earlier this morning.

When Ben saw his mom’s eyes go wide as he walked down the staircase, approaching the table where she sat with Dad, he knew that he’d succeeded in doing something he didn’t do often.

He’d surprised her.

“No polka dotted tie or pinstriped vest?” Mom asked dryly. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you wearing a traditional black and white tux.”

“I’ve grown out of that phase,” he answered, giving her a wry grin.

“Since when?” Dad asked, rolling his eyes. “Alright, who is she?”

Taken aback, Ben looked at Mom. “How does he do that?”

“All I have to do is remember what I was like at your age,” Dad answered distractedly, resting his coffee back on the kitchen table as he glanced at a text message on his phone.

“I guess we should all get back over to the Inn. The entertainment is just about ready to begin,” Dad observed.

Not only Ben, but Mom and Dad had also spent the morning next door at the Inn, being sure that every aspect of the event was running smoothly. Items that would be up for auction later in the day were on display for all to view, while last minute preparations were being made for both auctioneers. There would also be entertainment set up on two different stages, so last minute details regarding lighting and equipment were being finalized.

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