Page 37 of The Sexy Part
“What can I get you?”
She speaks in a rush. “Your mom needs a bottle of chilled champagne, and don’t forget about the kids coming on Saturday to paint the windows for Halloween.”
I smile. “Sounds like you took the job.”
“Yes. And I’m doing it full-time until I can figure out my next steps. Not because of you.” Her hands flutter in the air. “I mean, not that you said that.” She puts her hands down and lifts her cute chin. “It’s because I’m not sure I want to do advertising anymore.”
I lean down to the wine refrigerator and pull out a bottle of champagne. I always keep the kind Mom wants for clients chilling here. “It’s good to take some time to consider your options.”
I straighten to find her leaning over the bar to look at me. She jerks back.
“Options,” she echoes, her eyes locked on mine.
“Yeah.” I’m not sure if she’s extremely attracted to me or freaking out about that kiss. Maybe I should say something about it. Calm her nerves.
I hand her the champagne bottle. “Last night—”
“Is this the right kind?” She examines the label. “Hailey’s particular for her clients.”
“Trust me, it’s the right stuff. We’re her supplier. Rowan, I just want—”
“Thank you!” She does an about-face and practically sprints from the bar.
I may need to do damage control.
* * *
Rowan
Everything’s cool, everything’s cool. I was professional and did my job exactly as instructed. Was I flushed with heat just looking at him? That doesn’t matter. Did he notice? Doesn’t matter. I can say it was from the exertion of jogging across the street. Which will only come up if I have to talk to him again, which I don’t have to. Not really. Unless Hailey sends me on another errand.
Was this her matchmaking?
I hurry across the street. No, it couldn’t be. I saw for myself there was only one bottle of champagne in the refrigerator at Ludbury House.
Why is my heart racing? I’m not that out of shape.
I make it to the front porch of Ludbury House and take several deep breaths, trying desperately to find my own Zen. I’ve always sucked at meditation and breathing exercises. I can’t sit still and do nothing and especially can’t empty my mind of thoughts. My mind is always whirling, what’s next, what do I need to do, what about tonight and tomorrow, plan, plan, plan.
I step inside and see Hailey’s office door is closed. She’s probably doing her meditation. I put the champagne in the refrigerator and open the freezer, letting the cold air help me chill.
I didn’t want it to be awkward with Cooper. He brought up last night, and I completely lost my cool. It’s too soon to get involved with someone, and once I get my life back together, I’m heading back to the city. I’m not cut out for small-town life. Everyone moves slower here, and there’s just way too much friendliness with complete strangers. Like me. I’m the complete stranger.
I know I’m lucky I landed here. Lucky I met Cooper in the first place. That doesn’t mean I’m staying. I’m not about to change my life plan for a guy. Not even one who’s gorgeous and a good kisser. My breath comes harder.
Okay, I’m officially freaking out.
Hailey pops out of her office. “We’re meeting with Alexis and Lenny in ten. Follow me. I’ll show you how I do setup.” She carries two large binders and leads the way toward the back of Ludbury House.
I follow. “I got the champagne and reminded Cooper about the Halloween paintings.”
“Thank you!”
We reach the ballroom, where wedding receptions are held. It’s mostly empty now with a round table near the center. A crystal chandelier sparkles overhead. Hardwood floors, of course. I remember meeting in here for my own wedding consultation a year ago. Dave was agreeable through the whole thing. We probably looked like the perfect wedding couple. Even I believed it.
Hailey takes a seat and gestures for me to sit next to her. “Take a look through the binder to familiarize yourself with our offerings. I’m going to get the champagne and glasses.”
“Sure.” I flip through the binder. No prices. Smart. The idea is that you fall in love with an option. Floral centerpieces, floral decorations, corsages, or more simple with artificial flowers and streamers decorating the place. There’s definitely an A+ option versus a C. They even offer wedding gown assistance with recommendations to top bridal boutiques, including having an original gown created just for you. I confess I leaned toward the high-end options. I convinced myself it was a once-in-a-lifetime event I’d always remember. For some brides, it would’ve been.
