Page 1 of Dash to Me
EVA
My fingers danceacross the keyboard until my gaze darts from the spreadsheet to the myriad of sticky notes across the desk. A reminder of all the tasks still not done. The sun has long since set, yet here I am still in my home office.
Ryan’s wedding will be perfect. It’s a vow I intend to keep with every ounce of my being. My phone lights up with a photo of a vibrant bouquet, the florist seeking approval. With a discerning eye, I study the arrangement: the blush peonies, the delicate sprigs of baby’s breath, the subtle hints of greenery.
Me: More ivory.
I lean back in my chair, rubbing my temples as I switch tabs to the guest list spreadsheet. It is color-coded, names paired with table assignments, dietary restrictions, and plus-ones. A glance at the clock tells me it is nearing midnight, but the thought of an unsent RSVP or a misplaced seating chart is enough to fuel. Every detail matters. I scan the list once more. Not a single guest will feel out of place; not a single moment will slip through the cracks. Only perfection will suffice when it comes to Ryan’s wedding.
When my eyes open the next door, I’m at my desk.Crap.What time is it? I look at my phone, run to my room, change, and head to the florist.
“Morning, Eva.” Mrs. Harper fingers are arranging a bouquet. “Here for the final flower selection?”
“Yes, let’s finalize the arrangements. I’ve brought some swatches to match the color scheme we discussed.”
As we navigate through palettes, Mrs. Harper laughs. “You sure are meant to be a wedding planner. Good eye.”
“Thank you for making this so seamless.”
With another task neatly tied up, I step back into the daylight where Selena awaits, leaning against a nearby lamppost.
“Done bossing florists around?” Selena teases, pushing away from the post.
“Someone has to ensure Ryan and Jenna’s day is flawless.”
“True, but don’t forget to enjoy it, too.” Selena links her arm through mine, guiding us down the sidewalk. “And how about tonight? You promised me a break and some real food that doesn’t involve wedding cake tastings.”
“Only because you’re relentless. Alright, dinner at Rosie’s Diner—my treat.”
“Deal!” Selena beams. “Now spill—the centerpieces, are we talking extravagant?”
“Think of vintage lanterns.”
“Ooh, I love it when you talk decor. I can’t wait to see everything come together.”
“It’s going to be beautiful. But I have to go meet my brother. Meet you later?”
“Fine. But don’t forget.”
I head straight to my car and then head over to my brother’s. Things are getting real now. This is the first wedding I’ve ever handled, but it’s been amazing. I think I found my calling.
Once inside, I set up my laptop on the kitchen island while he finishes cooking whatever contraption he is working on now.
The constant buzz of my phone draws my attention back to the present. Multitasking is second nature to me, and I seamlessly switch gears, confirming the rehearsal dinner menu while simultaneously replying to an email about the string quartet’s repertoire.
“Did you review the vows with Jenna?”
“Twice. She’s as ready as I am, thanks to you.”
“Good.”
After a couple of hours going through last-minute prep, my phone lights up to remind me of dinner with Selena.
“Alright, Ryan.” I power down my laptop. “That’s enough for today. We’re on track, and everything is coming together perfectly.”
“I don’t know what we’d do without you.”
“It’s what family does for each other. Now go get some rest.”
