Page 90 of Bridesmaid to Bride

And I am moving on, which is why I’m back in Atlanta from Blue Vine today, at Skye’s and Billy’s mansion. They want to hear the presentation I’ve prepared for the expansion of Toys ‘n Joys.

I flick through the slick, colorful slides on my laptop, each one popping with bold figures and graphics. “So, here’s the breakdown of potential sales.” I tap the screen, and a pie chart explodes into view. “We’re not just dipping our toes in the market—we’re diving in skinny-dip style.”

Skye leans forward, her eyes twinkling with mischief as they scan the numbers. “Impressive. But honey, numbers are like orgasms—if they’re not mind-blowing, they’re just passing time.”

“Then brace yourself for the big O of profit margins.” I click to the next slide which practically oozes green. “Our offerings will have people coming back for more.”

“I’m intrigued,” Billy says.

I pause for effect, letting the room simmer with anticipation. “A personalized sex guide for every client with the addition of this new profiling software added to our online store.”

Skye’s eyebrows shoot up. “Tell me more.”

“Picture it. Velvet ropes, dim lighting, leather as far as the eye can see. A safe, healthy guide with toy recommendations for adults who want to explore.”

“Damn,” she says, fanning herself. “You’re not just thinking outside the box; you’re tying it up and spanking it.”

“Exactly!” I say. “We’ll go beyond selling products. We’ll sell the experience. The intimacy. The adventure.”

Skye purses her lips, nodding slowly. “Well, this has gotten my juices flowing. But I have a condition.”

“Hit me,” I say, leaning in, ready to negotiate.

“Experiences. These are the things that will hook them. And not just any—personalized ones. Cater to fantasies, offer workshops. Make it more than just a transaction; make it transformational.”

“Consider it done,” I assure her. “Transformation is my middle name.”

“Good.” Billy grins. “Because if we’re doing this, we’re going to rock their socks off.”

“Challenge accepted, Billy. Let’s put the hot in Hotlanta.”

“Ha! You’ve got yourself a deal.” He extends his hand, and I shake it, sealing the fate of my family’s sex shop with a promise of wild nights for our customers and even wilder balance sheets.

“It’s about to get Hotlanta in here.” I wink.

“You done yet?” Skye says.

“I think that’s it.” I can’t help the smirk tugging at the corner of my mouth as I gear up for my next pitch. “You’re going to love this next part,” I say, tapping my finger. “There’s someone who can elevate this whole experience thing.”

“Eva,” Skye says.

“Yup.” I nod. “She’s the secret weapon we didn’t know we had.”

“Let’s hear it.” Billy folds his arms.

My phone buzzes, and I check it, anxiously awaiting to hear from the show. And sure enough, it’s Darren.

Darren: You’re staying in the show! All this controversy has brought in record ratings, so the network doesn’t care if some question your intentions. Congrats!

48

Eva's Edibles

EVA

It’s been great to be home in Atlanta these past two weeks—where I’m staying, thank God—and I went to my first two therapy sessions. They were more helpful than I could’ve ever imagined, and I’m so glad I’m committed to making that a part of my life moving forward. In fact, it’s already helped me so much I’m at Skye’s mansion to tell her more about the nightmares I have. I promised to do so when I was ready, and I am now.

I walk into her house without knocking because she insists. In the living room, Skye is under a pop-up pyramid frame wearing blinking glasses.

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