Page 27 of Love in Bloom

“Diane’s always had a mean streak in her. She made Jackson’s mother cry at her very own birthday party once,” Mrs. Hart observed. “I’m sorry you were her target.”

“Yes, well, she’s a good client, so I’ll tolerate some abuse, but if it gets to be too much, she’ll have to find another florist to pick on.” A server thrust a fully loaded tray of appetizers in front of them. Wren surveyed the newest offerings and grabbed a stuffed mushroom and loaded potato skin. “I feel sorry for Miller, though. No man deserves to be stuck with that!” She crammed the mushroom into her mouth to keep from saying anything else.

“Yes, poor Miller.” Mrs. Hart shook her head. “I overheard her at the club last week. It sounds like she has high hopes for him and Michelle.”

The lights dimmed, teasing the crowd that the bachelor auction would soon begin. Wren thought about leaving. She’d accomplished what she’d wanted to for the evening; she’d faced her past and had told her friends the truth. If she left now, she wouldn’t have to watch Michelle bid on Miller. That would hurt too much. Wren couldn’t have him, but she didn’t want anyone else to, either.

She liked Miller, too much for her own good, but she’d learned her lesson. She wouldn’t change herself for him or for his career. She’d only be a liability to him.

Michelle, however, would be perfect for him. It might not be a long-term success, but in the short term, Michelle could give him everything he wanted. She handed her empty flute to a passing server and decided to leave. She didn’t want to watch the beginning of the Michelle and Miller train wreck.

“I think I’m going to head home. Wish Krista and London good luck for me. I hope you earn lots of money for the charities, Mrs. Hart.”

“Jackson’s backstage helping out, but I’m sure he’s just in the way and spending all his time teasing the other guys. I’ll get him to drive you home,” Emily said to her.

“I’m good with walking. Thanks, though.”

“In Louboutin heels?” London asked. “I’m impressed.”

“No.” Wren laughed. “My winter boots are at the coat check. There’s no way I would let these shoes touch a salty sidewalk.”

“Wren, I want to check my bid for your painting. Walk with me,” Mrs. Hart said. Her request sounded more like a command. The silent auction display was on the way to the coat check, so it was easy for Wren to agree.

She toyed with her ring, wondering what Mrs. Hart wanted. She knew the old woman was up to something. Wren hoped it was for good and not for evil. She’d had enough evil for the evening from Diane Swanson.

“Wren, do you believe in karma?” Mrs. Hart asked as she reviewed the bid sheets. “Darn! Number forty-two outbid me again.” She upped the last bid by ten dollars.

“Yes, ma’am, I do.”

“Good. I do, too. And here’s what I think. Sometimes karma needs a helping hand.” She looked Wren in the eyes and Wren forced herself not to squirm. “I like Miller. I always have. He’s a good man and has been a wonderful friend to Jackson. I think he needs to be rescued.” She pointed at Wren. “You should bid on him.”

“I considered it, but to be honest, I’m afraid Diane would retaliate, and I’m not sure I can afford a bidding war with Michelle.”

“Hmmm. You have a point. Diane is unpredictable and vindictive.”

“Maybe though…” Wren stopped. “Never mind, it’s too ridiculous.”

“The best plans usually are,” Mrs. Hart observed. “What’s your thought?”

“What if you bid on Miller and I’ll pay you back with a painting? Either something I have in inventory or something custom. Whatever you want.” Wren looked expectantly at Mrs. Hart. “Diane wouldn’t dare mess with you.”

“Because I’m old?” Mrs. Hart asked without any heat.

“No, because of your social standing. You’ll always outclass and outrank her.” Mrs. Hart seemed pleased with Wren’s answer.

“Any painting I want?”

“Yes!” Wren nodded her head.

“Well, dear,” Mrs. Hart said, linking her arm through Wren’s, “let’s go rescue Miller.”

The Master of Ceremonies took the stage. “Good evening and welcome to the Haven bachelor auction. Before I bring out our first bachelor, I’d like to remind you that bidding on the silent auction items will continue for another thirty minutes. If your bid wins, remember to settle up before you leave. And remember folks, proceeds from tonight’s event go to support the Haven Hospital Outreach and the Parks and Recreation Youth Enrichment Programs. Even if you don’t leave with any arm candy, everyone’s a winner in Haven tonight!” The audience applauded.

“I also just heard the waitstaff are making their final round with champagne. Ladies, remember, the more champagne you drink, the better looking the bachelors get.” He let the laughter die down. Wren went to find her friends as the MC continued to work the crowd.

“Bid on as many bachelors as you’d like. You can have more than one, but not at the same time. Cash, check, and credit cards accepted at checkout. And now, let me introduce our first bachelor.”

She found them near the front of the room. Wren reached for Krista’s hand. “Do you forgive me?” she asked Krista.

---