Page 68 of Before You Say I Do
Jordan shook her head. “You’re right. It was only a shag. A one-plane stand. Who would change their life for that? Not me.”
Abby’s hand wanted to shoot up in the air, but she kept it firmly planted by her side. She couldn’t risk it.
Jordan folded her arms across her chest. “But that still leaves the problem of what to do about the wedding. I’m the wedding planner now, too. I can’t bail totally. Maybe I could take a step back? I’ll give you a list of what needs finishing. Maybe Delta can step up to the plate.”
The thought of Jordan not being there was torture. But Abby knew she was being unfair. “Is there any chance you could stay on? If it’s about money, I can pay you more.”
A look of disgust crossed Jordan’s face. “Really? It’s not about the money, Abby. It never was. At least, not with me.”
Abby looked at the floor, biting her lip. She couldn’t say anything right today. That wasn’t what she’d meant to say.
“Nothing I say can persuade you? I know Marcus would appreciate it. And Marjorie. Everyone. We all loved you on the hen weekend, Jordan.”
“I know. Some more than others.”
Abby was empty. “I’m sorry this is how it’s worked out, but please, will you think about it? If you leave, I understand. I’ll make sure Marcus pays you until the end as agreed. But please can you stay to do the last few days? If not for me, for Marcus? I’m not sure how I’d explain it away otherwise. I promise he’ll big you up to everyone he comes across.”
* * *
Jordan wantedto step forward and shout in Abby’s face.“This is not about business or about money. This is about feelings. About us. About not walking away from us!”
But she was still on a job, and she was always professional.
Always.
Could she finish this? Get Abby to the altar as she’d promised Marcus? Despite everything, she still liked him. Plus, she still wanted to do a good job. It was in her genes.
Abby’s doorbell rang. She twisted on one foot, then twisted back, panic etched on her face. She checked her watch and swore lightly under her breath. “This might be Marcus.” She winced again. “He’s early. I better get it.”
Jordan nodded. Of course it was Marcus. Could this day get any worse?
Marcus was still in his office gear, just like Abby. Jordan had to admit, they looked like the perfect corporate couple. They always had. That wasn’t the issue.
The issue was that Abby had told her she was falling for her. Yet now she was sticking with the original plan and marrying Marcus.
Feelings didn’t change that quickly. Jordan was well aware of that.
She gulped, painting on a smile she hoped would fool most. Her outside looked normal. Inside, her heart was slowly breaking.
“Jordan! How are you?” Marcus approached her, offering his hand.
She shook it. “Good. How was your weekend?”
Marcus gave her a grin. “You know. Booze, women, wine. How about yours?”
“Remarkably similar,” she replied, snagging Abby’s gaze.
Abby looked away.
“But that’s out the way now, we can concentrate on the final week. Only five days to the big day.” He rubbed his hands together. “You’re helping Abby with her speech, aren’t you?”
Abby shook her head, butting in. “Jordan’s done more than enough already. I’m sure I can write my speech on my own.”
“But she’s a pro!” Marcus pointed at Jordan. “You’ve got a load of jokes that are guaranteed laughter points, right?”
Jordan nodded. “I do.” She ground her teeth together, still smiling.
Marcus nudged Abby with his elbow. “Get some pointers. If you don’t, I will.”
