Page 23 of Reckless Chance
“Wait a minute. I didn’t know. Evan only asked us to plan a party with a magician to celebrate you being guest chef here. He never even hinted that he planned to propose. I’m glad he didn’ttell me. It was hard enough to keep the party a secret. I’m certain that Sean didn’t know either.”
“Evan is a clever one. I’m also starting to understand why his parents insisted that we travel with security. They must have been guarding this ring.”
“I hate to tell you this. It’s not only the ring they’re guarding but also their next princess.”
“That’s impossible to wrap my head around.”
“I have no doubt that you’ll quickly adapt to your new role. You’re living a well-deserved fairytale. Enjoy it.”
“It’s your turn next. You’ll be marrying your prince before you know it.”
That catches me off guard, triggering a coughing fit.
“Are you okay?” Cassie asks.
“Swallowed wrong.”
Thankfully, Sean redirects everyone’s attention when he joins us on stage and grabs the nearby microphone, announcing, “Everyone, raise your glasses to the newly engaged couple. May happiness always follow you. Cheers!”
When our champagne glasses are nearly empty, Evan asks, “We would love it if you two would join us for a drink in our suite. The four of us can catch up.”
“Are you sure you want company now?” I turn toward Cassie with raised eyebrows.
“Come up for one drink and tell me how you planned all of this. Don’t worry. Evan and I will have plenty of time to celebrate.”
Sean says, “Okay, one drink. We can take a golf cart through the Maze to avoid the crowds.”
Followed by the two hulky security guys, we sneak out of the party. Before we reach the hidden door to the Maze, a man I vaguely remember walks up to Sean. “Could I have a minute of your time?” he asks with a slight Southern drawl.
“Of course, Detective Fielder. What can I do for you?”
I’m close enough to overhear the detective whisper, “I wanted to give you a heads-up. While we initially believed the death last night was an accident, there were a few things that didn’t make sense. We’re investigating further.”
“Thanks for letting me know. Keep me posted on what you learn. It’s difficult to believe it was anything other than an accident though.”
“We still need to tie up the loose ends to be certain.”
Hmm. Something about the accident is bothering me too. I can’t put my finger on it, but the police will figure it out. It’s none of my business anyway.
Or is it? I’m married to the owner.
Why the hell did that thought run through my head? I’m notreallymarried to Sean.
16
LOWRI
Cassie and I agreed to meet at the spa today. As much as I’m looking forward to girl time with my bestie, it’s going to be awkward keeping my marital status a secret. We don’t usually hold back important life events. I know—I didn’t tell her about the party, but that’s different.
I’m hiding my situation from Cassie for a couple of reasons. I look like a hypocrite. Marriage has always been on my never-ever list, and now here I am—married and looking foolish. It’s embarrassing. She’s also a lawyer. Whether she says anything or not, she’ll know I should have read the papers before signing them.
All I can hope is that Cassie will be focused on her engagement instead of my love life.
Stepping into the spa’s circular reception area, the peaceful indoor garden setting immediately starts to alleviate my worries. Soothing music plays in the background, interrupted only by the sound of trickling water from a cherub-topped, multi-tier fountain in the center of the room. As my eyes follow the fountain upward, they land on a domed skylight, surrounded by hand-painted clouds and birds. Green ivy trails over the edges and down the sides of each tier, and orange roses float in thewater, filling the air with their fragrance. They must have trouble convincing people to leave this sanctuary.
“Good morning!” Cassie chimes from behind me.
“You’re looking more rested than I would have expected after last night,” I tease.
