Page 154 of Never In My Wildest Dreams

Everyone went quiet, turning in their seats to watch the bride enter.

Except…instead of the bride, a straggler slipped into the barn. Lorelei didn’t recognize her, and she might not have paid much attention except the woman didn’t fit in with the rest of the artsy crowd.

In a black pencil skirt, sky-high heels, and a silky blouse with a deep, flirty neckline, she was a stunner. Bright red lipstick and a thick mane of sleek mahogany hair showcased the face of a supermodel.

Even then, she still wouldn’t have paid much attention if the woman hadn’t brightened at the sight of Slick.

But she never would’ve lost her place in the song if Slick hadn’t lit up. He broke into a dazzling smile, one filled with surprise—and maybe even a little affection.

Lorelei quickly recovered, but she was rattled. She’d known his partners might show up—depending on their schedules—but he’d never mentioned anyone else. He didn’t have a sister or an ex, and this woman was definitely not his mom.

So, who is she?

She didn’t know all of Noa and Ginty’s friends, but Red Lips dressed like a high-powered New Yorker who shopped at Bergdorf’s.

When the guest settled into an empty chair, Booker’s eyes came back to Lorelei. They were filled with pride and soft with ever-present desire.

She’d overreacted. Of course, she had. The vestiges of betrayal would haunt her for the rest of her life. It had altered her DNA, and there would always be triggers, but she knew Booker would never cheat on her. She knew that.

Finally, the bride appeared in the doorway. With the lavender-tinged twilight as a backdrop, she looked other-worldly. Noa had pretty much raised herself, so she wanted a solo walk down the aisle. She had pockets stuffed with honeysuckle buds, and as she sashayed, she tossed them at the guests. Everyone laughed, and it wasn’t long before the barn had the lovely scent of the sweet nectar.

Right at the end, she ran into Ginty’s arms, and he held her tightly, lifting her off the ground and whispering in her ear.

Tears blurred Lorelei’s vision. Her friend had earned this kind of forever love. She was so happy Noa had found a man who was able to heal damage he hadn’t inflicted.

She felt Slick’s eyes on her, and when she looked over, he mouthed, “Us.”

Elation hit like a lightning bolt, and hot tears ran down her cheeks. She was overjoyed that she’d found the love of her life and that Stevie would have the best daddy in the world.

After the ceremony, they sat down for a buffet dinner. Grace made a stunning cake, but she couldn’t help herself and wound up making so many pastries they needed another long table to display them.

Lorelei was too excited to eat a full meal, so she stuck with hors d’oeuvres and loaded her plate with cheese, prosciutto, fruit, nuts, and crackers. Then, she searched the room for Slick.

And spotted him talking animatedly with Red Lips.

He had three partners, and they were all men. Caleb, Andreas, and George. Could she be a client? Maybe she worked for the Renegades—a publicist?

All she knew was this woman ran the world, crushing her opponents under that six-inch heel.

Who is she?

Well, there was only one way to find out.

As she approached, she saw Slick had set her napkin on the table, saving her a seat between him and Red Lips. That was really sweet of him. But still...

“Hey, handsome.” She kissed his cheek.

He whipped the napkin away, so she could set her plate down and wrapped an arm around her waist. “Lorelei, I’d like you to meet George Willet. One of my partners.”

She looked around the table for a man who fit the bill. Yale graduate, big, expensive watch…someone like Slick. But it was just the guys from the Renegades. And the straggler.

“I’ve heard so much about you.” Red Lips held out her hand. “I’m glad to finally meet you. Okay, fine. He told me not to bring it up, but I just can’t help myself. I was a Mini Callow. I admit it. I saw you in concert in Scottsdale. Well, and in Topeka—but only because I have an aunt who lives there, and she bought me tickets for my college graduation.” The woman blew out a breath. “Fine. I saw you at Madison Square Garden, too.” She laughed. “I’ll be quiet now, but I honestly can’t believe I’m sitting next to Lorelei Calloway.”

“I’m sorry. I’m confused.” She turned to Booker. “George?”

“That’s me,” Red Lips said. “Georgiana Willet.”

“You’reGeorge?” Lorelei asked. “His partner?”

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