Page 21 of Babies at Coconuts

Chapter 15

Alex rolled her eyes at Fernando’s playful brothers in the parking lot and watched Bill saunter toward his Ram truck. “I wonder when Suzy’s ex turned into a dark-haired Sam Elliot?”

Hope snorted. “Bill has held up well. I don’t remember his being so handsome.”

Alex fished inside her purse. “He’s cute but that would be weird. Besides, I’m taken.” Retrieving her phone, she said, “I’m going to text Cheri. Suzy needs help with this-this meddling woman. She’s worked far too hard on Jon and Fernando’s wedding for”—she made air quotes—“Mama Gia to mess everything up.”

Hope nodded in agreement as Alex scrolled through her phone. “Aha. Here’s Cheri’s number.” She quickly typed a text.

Hey, Cheri. It’s Alex. Is there any way you can come to the wedding tomorrow? Charter a private plane or something? Suzy has her hands full with Fernando’s mom, if you know what I mean. I don’t mean to intrude but Jon’s former girlfriend looks like she’s about to pop with the baby, and I don’t know how much Suzy can take. We need all hands on deck. If you can leave New York, please do. Thanks, Alex.

She hit send. “Fingers crossed.” Transfixed on her screen, Alex said, “Want to go to Coconuts?”

“Is that even a question? See you in ten.” Hope crossed the gravel lot toward her gray Honda.

Meanwhile, Alex climbed into her white Mustang and raised the convertible top. She felt her phone vibrate but concentrated on the road.

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