Page 96 of Bridesmaid to Bride

“Go on,” Mia coaxes.

“We just connected on every level.” Paige grips Foster’s hand. “But we broke up because...” She hesitates, biting her lip.

“Because?” Mia’s salivating for the scoop.

“Because we went head-to-head in the courtroom”—Paige’s eyes gloss over—“and it turned into a war.”

Foster clears his throat. “I didn’t like it when she won.” He stares at her lovingly. “But then I realized her beating me is what made me fall madly in love with her.”

Look, Foster is a snoozy dick-magoo, but I’m rooting for him and Paige. They’re perfect for each other, and they make each other happy. That’s all that matters.

“He’s my everything.” Paige smiles.

Zach apparently wasn’t her “everything,” and now he’s sitting there, relaxed. Too relaxed. Is he high?

Wait, of course he is. But also, it seems he’s happy to have gotten back together with Kat.

Speaking of Kat, I don’t know how my dad took her leaving him. He’s called me several times since the wedding, leaving many messages telling me he’s sorry and is seeking professional help for his issues. I was really glad he was reaching out and wanting to make things right, but I wasn’t ready to talk to him just yet. However, I did text him to let him know I was sorry about Kat and I just needed more time.

“Okay, folks, time to switch gears,” Mia announces, and I’m up next. My pulse quickens—from nerves and bubbling excitement.

“Let me move on to Eva, who’s here to talk about her venture into the culinary world,” Mia says, and I stand, smoothing out my skirt.

“Thanks, Mia.” I flash my practiced smile to the audience. “So, after trying my hand at legal briefs—I’ve spiced things up. Literally.”

A titter runs through the crowd.

“I’m launching my food business again,” I say, “but this time, I’m playing it smarter. I’m hustling for contracts and making relationships with vendors—it’s all about a solid foundation. Now it’s just a matter of finding investors.”

Mia’s eyes twinkle. “And I heard you’ve brought samples.”

“Yes,” I announce, pointing off-stage. “There are some bite-sized previews of what’s to come.”

I’m shocked to see who appears from backstage. There, holding the big box of chocolates, is my dad.

My heart warms in my chest as a mist forms in my eyes. Maybe he is really serious about trying to work through his issues with what happened to Mom and me. I truly hope so, and this is definitely a good sign.

He waves at me before he gives the samples to each row of the crowd to pass along, and the audience members all look like they just won the snack lottery.

I keep watching him through eyes blurred with tears. When he finishes, I say, “Thank you, Dad. For your help.”

He waves. “I haven’t been here for you, Eva, and I want to be. I was wrong. So, please consider me your first investor. I want to support your career—and your many talents.”

My jaw drops, and my heart blooms at his words. I’m so stunned it’s hard to speak, but I manage to say, “That would be wonderful.”

The crowd erupts into cheers.

After the room settles, Mia takes a nibble and says, “This is delicious,” and the audience ooohs. “Keep an eye out for Eva’s Edibles, coming soon to tantalize your taste buds!” Then there’s applause, because who doesn’t love free food?

“Now, we have another treat for you all,” Mia transitions, and the lights dim. I settle back into my seat beside West, feeling like a real chef.

The screen flickers to life, showcasing West’s parents inside their future store, which is all raw potential and dust clouds as walls come tumbling down. They’re armed with paint rollers, looking like home-improvement warriors.

“Look at them go.” Ironically, West’s got the look of a proud parent.

“Never underestimate the power of elbow grease and a dream.” Mia smiles.

As West’s mom slaps a neon shade of red onto the wall, West says, “Mom’s philosophy: Go bold or go home.”

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