Page 63 of Love, Lies, and Celtic Knots

“Yes. I’m aware. He seems to be happy about it, and if he’s happy, then I’m happy. What help does the Celtic Knot need from me?”

Emma looks down at her left hand. “As I recall, you were a pretty savvy events planner and marketing manager.”

“That’s what I did in Vegas.”

“Brennen could use that type of help right now. Offer your services, and I’ll make sure he accepts.”

I think I know exactly how I can approach him.“I didn’t see that ring on your finger the other day.”

Emma’s smile is electric and genuine. “No, you didn’t. I just got engaged. You’re very observant.”

“It’s my job to be observant about these things. I’m available if you need a wedding planner.”

“You know what? I think you just figured out your way back into the winery. You’ve got a client who’s interested in a wedding there.”

I hold out a hand for Emma to shake to seal the deal. She clasps it with her left one, causing the diamond to sparkle in the sun coming through the window.

“Jos, one more thing. Don’t reveal the client just yet. I haven’t told my big brothers that their baby sister is getting married, or to whom.”

The next morning, I wake to a text from Emma asking me to meet her at a local address. It’s also on Seabreeze Avenue, near the cafe we met at yesterday. The location is the Reilly building, one of the oldest structures in town. As I approach the store front, I see that it’s been beautifully restored, and it houses a bridal shop now. In keeping with the old Florida vibe, the display windows feature vintage-inspired wedding dresses and coastal décor. The sign above the door is embellished with the name of the shop:Coastal Couture.

A bell above the door tinkles daintily as I enter. I’m greeted by a gorgeous Black woman about my age. “Welcome. You must be Joselyn. Emma and Isabella are in the back lounge waiting for you.”

Isabella?I have no idea who that is. “Yes, I’m Joselyn. Joselyn Vargas.”

“I’m Desirae Russell, and this is my shop. Emma tells me you’re her wedding planner, and that you’re new in town.”

That’s how Emma described me? I’ll take it.I can’t help but smile at the pleasant demeanor of the shop owner. “Yes. I recently moved back here from Las Vegas.”

“Well, it’s great to meet you. I can’t tell you how many times a prospective bride asks me if I know of a wedding planner.”

She leads me into the back, where a comfortable lounge area exists for prospective brides to try on and show off dresses. It’s decorated with crystal accents and velvet covered furniture in soft pinks and grays, providing an air of elegance. Emma and a striking young woman who must be Isabella are sipping champagne and browsing through catalogs.

Emma calls out. “Jos, you’re just in time to help me select a dress. Meet Isabella. She’s a friend, and she’s Brennen’s assistant at the Celtic Knot.”

We exchange greetings, and Desirae gets things started.

“Now that everyone’s here, Emma, why don’t you tell us what you’re looking for?”

Emma blinks rapidly. It’s one of the few times I’ve seen her at a loss for words. She gives me one of thosehelp melooks, so I improvise, based on what we talked about when we were kids, lying among the grapevines and sunflowers, dreaming of our own weddings.

“Emma’s taste is simplistic and rooted in Irish tradition. She’ll want something in ivory, with some traditional Irish lace, yet appropriate for a beach ceremony.”

I glance at Emma to gauge her reaction, and she’s beaming. I think I nailed it!

Desirae responds. “I recently completed some designs that I think will work. Be right back.”

With Desirae gone, I need to find out more about what Emma envisions for her wedding. “When were you thinking about getting married? Sometime next spring? How long do I have to plan?”

Emma and Isabella look at each other and laugh. “How long have you known me, Jos? I’m a woman of action. I’m ready to marry the man of my dreams tomorrow, so get to planning!”

“But seriously, Emma. Let’s take some time. Everything should be perfect for your special day. What about the groom and his family? Will they want to be involved?”

“Miles is a former Navy SEAL, just like Ryan. The Navy is his only family, so Ryan will be his best man. He just doesn’t know it yet.”

My mouth falls open in shock. “Ryan? As in your brother, Ryan, who left home when we were just kids? He was a Navy SEAL? And he’ll be here for the wedding?”

Emma grins. “Yes, that’s him. You’re not the only one who’s returning to the fold.”

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