Page 175 of The Friend Situation

It clicks in my head. Emma’s family is incredibly wealthy, but instead of joining the family business, she opted for the influencer route. The Manchesters own a very upscale hotel chain that rivals the W.

Of course they know one another.

Emma’s not problematic, so she’s never been on my radar. LadyLux has never once covered her.

“I’m Emma Jolly now,” she says, proudly displaying a cheesy smile.

“I’m trying not to fangirl. It’s very nice to meet you. Wow. I can’t believe you married my cousin. He’s so …” I struggle to find the right words.

“Grumpy?” she suggests, snickering.

Over the last six months, I’ve been intensely focused on Lexi and Easton’s relationship, leaving little room for anything else, whether it be celebrity gossip or family matters. Now, I feel out of the loop—something I never wanted. I’ve been a terrible daughter, granddaughter, sister, and cousin, completely avoidant.

“This is six degrees of separation from Weston Calloway. Do you know everyone?” Emma asks him, breaking me from my thoughts.

“Feels like it,” he replies with a laugh. “Small world. We’re all connected in some way.”

“Yes, we are.” Emma grins wide. She turns to me. “Funny story: I used to have thebiggestcrush on Easton and Weston back in the day—mainly Easton. I probably should’ve realized I was into moody men from the start.”

She shares that like she’s trying to ease my concern. Maybe I’m more transparent than I think. Nervous laughter escapes me.

Weston raises an eyebrow. “When I sayallof my sister’s friends tried and failed, I meanallof them.”

Emma shrugs. “Weston’s a tough one to capture. You must be really special.”

“My Leelee is so special,” Mawmaw interjects proudly. “When she was younger, she was so shy. My big-hearted grandbaby. Don’t have many like her without an attitude. She loves deeply and is compassionate, empathetic, and a great listener.”

“Just admit I’m your favorite, Mawmaw. They won’t tell anyone,” I say, and she shoots me a wink.

Weston brushes his fingers across mine. Electricity surges through me, and I force my attention back to Emma.

“You know Hudson swore he’d never get married again or even date anyone until Colby was older. Can you share the recipe for your love potion?”

Mawmaw sips her coffee, glancing from Weston to me. “Honey, you don’t need it.”

“You don’t,” Emma agrees, and I can’t help but wonder how well she knows Weston.

“You don’t,” Weston adds with a smirk while drinking his coffee.

“Glad we’re all in agreement.” Mawmaw stands. “Now, what would you kids like for breakfast?”

“I thought we were going to Glenda’s?” Weston questions.

“No, sir,” Mawmaw scolds. “I’m feeding ya today. My treat.”

Emma stands. “Just wanted to come by and say good morning and bring in the eggs since I was nearby. Need anything else while I’m in town? I have to head home and get Colby ready for school.” She chugs her coffee, then sets the mug in the sink.

“No, sweetie. Have a good day. Come back over later, and we’ll play some rummy,” Mawmaw tells Emma.

“Maybe.” She leans over, giving me a side squeeze. “Nice to officially meet you. Bye, Weston.”

He shoots her a wink as Mawmaw smiles at us.

“Now, are bacon and eggs with some toast good? Or do you want sausage?”

“Either one. I’m not picky.” Weston stands to help.

“No, baby, let me,” she insists, gently forcing him to sit back down. “Now, let me know how you take your eggs.”

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