Page 10 of Babies at Coconuts

Chapter 8

Waiting good-naturedly while Ken talked to Fernando’s brothers, Suzy winked at Jon in an effort to calm his nerves. Chewing on her bottom lip, she hoped the venue wasn’t a mistake but the boys wanted Indian food, and it was their wedding after all.

Two weeks before, her socialite friend, Cheri Van Buren, had called Suzy completely distraught about multiple conflicts for celebrity events in Manhattan but promised to arrange a capable chef to handle the rehearsal dinner and wedding. Suzy trusted her newest friend. After all, she ran Fifth Avenue Catering in New York City. This would literally and figuratively be cake compared to a high-end celebrity event.

Ken kissed her forehead. “Someone’s in deep thought. Stop worrying. Everything will be fine. I’m sure the food will be amazing.”

The front door burst open. Several shielded their eyes from the bright sunshine as Hope strode inside with Alex on her heels. “Sorry I’m late.”

Chuckling, Suzy said, “You’re here just in time. Trust me.”

Alex, apparently detecting her friend’s uneasiness, sidled up to Suzy, and kissed her cheek. “Happy almost-wedding day.”

Hope flanked Suzy’s other side.

Alex whispered, “Everything going okay?” She glanced around. “Where’s Cheri?”

Suzy blew out her breath. “Unfortunately, she had a conflict in New York.”

Alex winced. “Too bad. I know you were counting on her delectable food.”

“Cheri should be a magician with her disappearing acts. We aren’t used to having friends who live in two different states. Will she be here for the wedding?” Hope asked.

“Not unless her celebrity event falls through.” Suzy motioned toward the kitchen with her head. “She recommended this chef, so I assume he’s good.” Glancing toward Fernando’s mother, she narrowed her eyes. “And I’m sure I’ll hear about it if he isn’t.”

Alex followed Suzy’s stare and nodded. “Gotcha.” She lowered her voice. “Demanding?”

Suzy laughed far too loudly. “You could say that.”

Rubbing her hands together, Alex winked. “No problem.”

Hope stifled a giggle. “Down, Alex.”

“That’s no fun.” Alex studied the room setup. “Let’s get this party started.”

As if on cue, Chef Raj, a tall, handsome Middle Eastern Indian appeared with a gleaming tray of glassware. With a flourish, he said, “Welcome to Indian Summer. I’m Chef Raj. Who’s the happy couple?”

Suzy pointed toward Jon and Fernando. “They are. Meet Jon and Fernando.”

The chef studied the two men and didn’t miss a beat. “Congratulations. I hope you’ll find my food to your liking.” Balancing the tray, he said, “I was instructed to serve wine. Would you prefer red or white?”

In unison, they both said, “Red.”

The chef handed them each a glass of cabernet and waited until they smelled the bouquet, swirled the wine in a wineglass, and tasted the alcohol. Nodding, Fernando said, “Delicious.”

“Very good.” Chef Raj proceeded to ask the other guests if they preferred red or white wine.

Fernando’s mother stood frozen as Suzy accepted a wineglass. “What? No limoncello? We always have limoncello at weddings.”

Suzy’s face fell. “Sorry, I didn’t know.”

Mama Gia pursed her lips. “This will do.” Clearing her throat, she reached for a glass. “I want to make a toast.”

“Here, here,” Luigi said.

Suzy heard a small groan escape Jon’s mouth.

Oblivious, Mama Gia held her glass in mid-air. “Here’s to my baby. My sweet, sweet baby.” She sniffed. “I can’t believe you’re getting married and leaving me but—”

“Mom, I’m right here.” Fernando’s voice rose. “Look at me. I’m a grown man. Please stop calling me ‘baby’.”

Jon’s lips curved into a slight smile. “Remember, you’re gaining a son.”

Wiping her nose, Mama Gia said, “That I am.” She placed her hand on Jon’s shoulder. “To my new son.”

Luigi held his wineglass in the air. “And to another brother joining our famiglia.”

“Here, here,” the Russos shouted.

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