Page 55 of Magnetic God

Jacqueline nods. “I love it and the others will look wonderful in it.” She turns to Isa. “You might want a shawl or something for yours, to cover your fat.”

Isa smiles sweetly back at Jacqueline. “I’ll wear what everyone else wears. If they don’t have a shawl, then neither will I.”

I have to give her props. I don’t know if I could wear something like that, but I also blame my strict upbringing with Pastor Sullivan and my mother. Religious trauma is a real thing.

Jacqueline frowns. “Perhaps we can have different styles just as long as they’re the same color. I don’t think Vivian will like this dress.”

“You’re probably right.”

Jacqueline’s phone rings and she lifts it. A dark look flickers in her gaze as she answers.

“This is Jacqueline Chanel Minty-Smith.”

I wonder if she’s going to keep the Smith part of her last name when she marries Brooks. After doing some research on her, I discovered that her former husband, Gerald Smith, recently passed away unexpectedly. It shocked me she was already engaged, but maybe she was seeing Brooks on the side all along. God knows that’s his style. But Jacqueline Chanel Minty-Smith-Henderson is a mouthful.

The thought has me choking back a laugh. Otherwise, I might sob.

Jacqueline glares at me. “One moment, Albert. I need to step somewhere more private.”

Whoops.

When she’s gone, I turn to Isa. “I have a dress that I think will look stunning on you. May I show it to you?”

“Yes, please.”

Isa is nothing like Jacqueline. She’s sweet. Easy to work with. And actually has an idea what she wants to wear. I leave her with Renee to try on some dresses and go looking for Jacqueline.

She’s in the hallway, her back to me.

“What I don’t understand is how this happened.” There’s a pause. “That’s not acceptable. I can’t be the one who brings down my family’s empire and legacy.”

Well, that doesn’t sound good. I should leave, but stop when the next words come out of her mouth.

“No. I refuse to believe that all the money is gone. You better find a way to fix this, Albert. I’m getting married in two months, and nothing is going to stop this wedding.”

I step into another room before she ends the call. Her loud heels hit the tiled floor as she passes, going back to the bridal room. I peer around the corner.

What in the hell was that about?

Because it sounded like Jacqueline Chanel Minty-Smith might be broke.

13

Hannah

Holy shit.

Tonight is my gala.

I walk around my building, making sure all the final touches are in place. The gala is Regency themed. With the popular show based on a book series on Netflix, it just seemed like the right fit. Plus, it gives people a chance to dress up and get creative if they want. The only requirement is that the attendees at least dress in formal attire. Other than that, the sky is the limit.

I’m wearing a light blue dress with a high waistline that enhances my breasts while flattering the rest of my body. There’s a lace overlay over the dress, giving it a romantic vibe. I left my blonde hair hanging freely, though it’s curling naturally because of the humidity. Texas in April. Got to love it. I’m just glad the weather held out, otherwise I would have had to bring in the band from the gardens. Right now they’re near the fountains, and music floats in as they practice.

Each room has been transformed to fit the theme while showing off what I can offer as a wedding planner. The goal tonight is to bring in new clients while celebrating my success. And I’m so freaking excited.

Renee approaches wearing a similar style gown, but in bright pink.

“Boss, you’ve outdone yourself.”

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