Chapter 2
Suzy heard several sets of footsteps and chatter, some in English, some in Italian. Oh, God. I assumed they’d go straight to the hotel. Suzy threw the dress back over her head and traipsed into the living room.
A short, busty brunette rushed toward Suzy, arms spread wide. “Ciao.” The woman giggled. “Do they wear zippers in the front in the States?”
Suzy stared down at her clothes. “Um, no. Whoops.” She embraced the Italian woman who kissed both her cheeks. “You must be Fernando’s mother. Be right back after taking care of my wardrobe malfunction.” Shouting over her shoulder, she said, “Welcome,” and retreated to her closet with Jon on her heels.
Staring over his shoulder, Jon locked the bedroom door. “Go ahead and change, Mom, I won’t look. I need to talk to you.”
Suzy gave him a sideways glance. “What’s wrong, hon?”
“Fernando’s mother is bossy. She already wants to control everything. She wants to change every detail.”
“She’s probably just enthusiastic. Besides, everything is in place, son. Fernando’s mother can’t possibly make changes the day before the wedding.”
Switching to a navy jumpsuit covered in giant red hibiscus flowers, she donned gold strappy heels and grabbed a tiny red clutch. Hugging her son, Suzy said, “Don’t worry. Everything will be perfect. Now, will you hook the top of my jumpsuit?”
“I hope you’re right. You look great, Mom.” Jon sighed as he fastened the hook. “You’ll see what I mean.”
Checking her outfit in the mirror, Suzy hooked her arm through Jon’s. “It’ll be fine. I promise. Let’s go meet Fernando’s family.”
Raising his eyebrows, he said, “Brace yourself.”