Page 49 of Wynns of Change
Finally, a horse-drawn carriage appeared, the wagon laden with supplies for her special surprise.
Abby Stokely sat next to the driver. She hopped down as soon as they stopped.
“I was beginning to think you weren’t going to make it.”
“We were waiting for a delivery at the ferry dock. Thank you so much for trusting me to cater your special dinner.”
“You’re welcome, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Abby rubbed her palms together. “Where would you like us to set up?”
“I was thinking down here.” Harlow led her friend to the end of the dock and the section where it “t’d” off, offering ample space for her small group of guests.
The catering crew got to work, unpacking supplies, setting the table, adding an umbrella, a gorgeous shade of cobalt blue. Floral arrangements, flowers in vivid shades of purple, yellowand orange, sat atop marble pedestals, giving the cozy dining spot a festive vibe.
Portable tiki torches, a crisp white tablecloth, fine China, sterling silver, all helped create an elegant dinner table with seating for five—her bestie Eryn, Lottie, her father and Vic.
As if on cue, another carriage arrived with food and drinks, along with their private chef, all arranged by Abby’s new catering company. The delivery guys left, assuring her they would return to pack everything up after the celebratory meal ended.
At four on the dot, with the chef hard at work whipping up his special creations, Harlow sent an urgent text, asking her special guests to meet her at the arbor leading down to the harbor.
Vic arrived first, followed by her father. Lottie and Eryn, the stragglers, showed up last.
“Is everything all right?” David’s brows knitted. “Vic mentioned you had something urgent to take care of.”
“Everything is fine. In fact, this past week has been one of the best I’ve had in a very long time.” Harlow pressed her hand to her heart, gazing at her loved ones, those who had been by her side, supporting her, encouraging her, protecting her. She knew without a doubt she wouldn’t be standing there if not for them.
Her father and Eryn flying to California as soon as they tracked her down after the accident. Aunt Birdie, although not there, arriving, lock stock and barrel, abandoning her world cruise to be by her niece’s side.
Lottie, convincing her to step out of her comfort zone and form friendships with the Magnificent Mackies, women who had shown her nothing but love and support—not for Harlow Wynn, the star, but for Harlow, their friend.
And Vic…who had been by her side for years, one of her only true friends amid the crazy Hollywood scene. She owed them all a debt of gratitude and today…with a big beautiful new balance in her checking account thanks to recently completingA City of Glass; she was going to give a little back.
“I have a surprise, my way of thanking you.” Harlow motioned for them to follow her down the path and across the street.
Chef Jacques had finished setting the table. Bottles of wine and sparkling water, both on a bed of ice, sat inside sterling silver ice buckets.
Making their way to the table, he greeted them. “Welcome to Harlow’s exquisite island dinner.”
Lottie’s eyes lit. “You planned a dinner for us?”
“It’s a celebration.” Harlow waited for them to be seated before passing out the menus. “I hired Island Time Catering to prepare our special meal.”
David slipped his reading glasses on and began reading:
Sampler platter: A classic French cheese plate featuring brie and Bleu d'Auvergne (blue cheese), along with crusty bread, dried fruit and mixed nuts.
Starter: Salade Niçoise: A classic salad with tuna, green beans, fingerling potatoes, soft-boiled eggs, olives and anchovies.
Main Course: Coq au Vin: Chicken braised in red wine with mushrooms.
Dessert: Crème brûlée. A creamy custard dessert with a caramelized sugar topping.
Vic smacked his lips. “Everything sounds delish.”
“I’m sure it will be.” Harlow patted Chef Jacques’ arm. “The chef and his team come highly recommended.”
“We will start with the sampler platter.” He placed the platter near the center of the round table. His assistant, a woman sporting a crisp black uniform, poured wine and sparkling water.
