Page 96 of Mercy (The Sins Trilogy 3)
But most of all, I can’t wait for Tony’s reaction when I walk down the aisle to him.
“It’ll require a headband for the veil. I think Masako can make it look like a tiara that goes with the bridal pieces she’s making for you,” Avery says. “She and I are going to make you the most beautiful bride ever. So how much time do we have?”
“Six weeks,” Mrs. Min answers.
“My goodness.” A hard glint enters Avery’s gaze, reminding me of a pianist ready to tackle a challenging piece. “No problem. I’ll make it happen. Now let’s take your measurements. Try not to gain or lose too much weight. Some brides starve themselves until the wedding, like that’s going to make a difference.”
She takes me to the back and gets my measurements, meticulously writing everything down, then hands me back to Mrs. Min, Yuna, Bobbi, Ms. Kim and the other members of Mrs. Min’s entourage.
“I expect the best, Avery,” Yuna’s mom says.
Avery gives her a cocky smile. “You will get the best.”
They exchange air kisses, and we leave. As we drive to our next destination—florist—I turn to Yuna’s mom as a thought strikes me. “I forgot, but does she need a deposit for the dress?”
“Yes, but it’s been taken care of.”
I frown. “Is she sending an invoice to Wei?”
“Who?”
Oh no.“Did you pay?” I ask, embarrassment settling over me. I should’ve remembered to do it at the boutique.
“Of course.”
“Tony and I can cover it. We should, really.”
“Don’t be silly, my dear. Didn’t I say I’m going to be your mom for this? That means I’m going to take care of these sorts of details.”
Whatever Avery Parker’s charging couldn’t be cheap. It’s uncomfortable and baffling that Mrs. Min is spending this kind of money on me. “But the cost of the gown isn’t just a detail.”
Mrs. Min places a hand on my wrist. “It’s nothing. Consider it a gift. My husband makes plenty of money. I’m entitled to spend it however way I like.”
Of course, but I’m pretty sure her husband isn’t making all that money so she can spend it on me. “Still…”
“If you want to pay me back, set Yuna up with someone young and eligible. Ideally rich, too.”
“Mother!” Yuna yelps from the passenger seat.
“Your father and I only want the best for you. Ivy has good taste in men, I’m sure.” Mrs. Min adds, “Sharp. Clean-cut. A sweet man. The kind that any mother would love to have as a son through marriage.”
I suppress a smile at Yuna’s scowl. Even though death is shooting out of her eyes, she isn’t really angry. I can tell because she just sighs loudly. And it feels like…family.
Suddenly I wish my parents were alive, for my real mother to be here with me, holding my hand, shopping with me, giving me suggestions. I look at Yuna’s mom’s warm face, and tell myself it’s okay. I have someone who’s as close as I can get. “Thank you, Mrs. Hae—er, Min.”
“You’re welcome. My husband’s last name is Hae, not Min. I didn’t take his name because we don’t do that in Korea. But you can just call me Mom.” She pats my hand, her smile sweet. “I meant what I said yesterday. You’re like a daughter to me, and I’m going to do right by you.”
When Margot said the same thing, it left my skin crawling. But from Yuna’s mom, a teary warmth sweeps through me, like that feeling you get when you see the most perfect picture of a mother and daughter on Mother’s Day.
“There’s no rush,” she adds. “Whenever name you’re comfortable with. This isn’t about me, but you.”
“Thank you.” Then I squeeze her slender hand, grateful.
