Page 18 of Perfect Pitch

That’s when what the groom confides causes me to feel faint. “Toni’s mother was French. She wanted this wedding to incorporate her in as many ways as possible. I’ll never tell her, but the reason our DJ canceled was because he couldn’t fulfill a mandate of the contract—something you just did flawlessly.”

He turns around and finds his wife’s face shining up at her father’s. “I’d have paid a million dollars for that smile. That’s what she deserves today.”

Before I can say another word, he saunters over to his new father-in-law who hugs him fiercely.

I’m surprised I’m able to work my equipment without being able to see it because of the tears blurring my eyes.

* * *

After I get back to my room and unload all my equipment, I’m about to slide into bed when I get a text message.

It’s from Alison Freeman.

Alison:

The wedding’s hit the papers already. I’d like to talk with you about providing the music for Em’s next fashion show if you’re interested.

With shaking fingers, I click the link and begin to read.

Antoinette (Toni) Lauder, philanthropist, received the surprise of her life at her wedding to high school sweetheart Crosby Reyes, investment banker at the Reyes Group. Their DJ canceled after taking another job “mistaking” the date for the pair’s nuptials. Fortunately for them, Kensington was able to step in. She haunted every guest with her vocal rendition of the couple’s wedding song in French—something the bride gushed to guests, “It’s something Maman would have loved.”

The late Jeannette Lauder passed away not long after Reyes proposed. However, she maintained her health long enough to help her daughter pick out the Emily Freeman—Amaryllis Designs—original she wore. Lauder’s bouquet was a replica of the one her mother carried when marrying her father.

“The gift from Kensington was unexpected and appreciated,” Reyes was also overheard to say. He went on, “She’s fluent in the language.”

“For the first time in a long while, I felt like Maman was by my side. That’s what I was hoping to feel today,” the new Mrs. Reyes exclaimed not long before she left in a shower of bubbles.”

After I wipe the tears from my eyes, I reply back.

Austyn:

I’d love to.

* * *

CHAPTER NINE

FORT WASHINGTON AREA, NEW YORK CITY

Note to self: If a man cleans his own bathroom, he’s a keeper.

—Viego Martinez, Celebrity Blogger

The next day, I’ve barely knocked on the door when it’s flung open. A ridiculously handsome man with long sable-colored hair that’s pulled back in a low ponytail greets me. “Austyn. I’m Trevor Clifton. Welcome to River View Place!”

I hold out my hand. “Austyn Kensington. A pleasure to meet you.”

When our hands connect, I’m relieved not to feel one single thing—not a spark between me and the fabulously handsome man. He grins and steps back. “Come on in. I’ll give you a tour and then we can talk.”

“Sounds great.” I follow behind Trevor, my eyes darting right out the window to the view over the Hudson. “This place is gorgeous.”

“Thanks. It’s a hell of a commute for me to get into Manhattan when I do have to go into the office, but on the flip side, I don’t have to go through the normal process of having a roommate reviewed.”

I stop short. “Wait? Roommates have to be reviewed here in New York? And why don’t you have to go through the same process?”

He grins. “Which question do you want me to answer first?”

“Take your pick.”

---