Page 23 of Innocent Union
Lucia and I get to the flower shop my mom recommended and talk to the florist—a woman named Crystal with pink hair and a nose ring. I’m shocked my mom would ever work with someone who had pink hair and a nose ring, but I guess that means Crystal is good at her job.
She brings out multiple bouquets for me to look at. Each one is gorgeous, from roses to petunias to tulips.
“I like this one,” Lucia says, pointing at a red and yellow bouquet.
“I prefer this one.” I point at a softer pink and white one.
Lucia scrunches up her face. “Why would you want that one? You’re not an old granny.”
“Lucia,” I say in a warning tone.
She huffs. “This is stupid. Just pick the one I think is pretty.”
“It’s not your wedding.”
“I can’t believe it’s your wedding,” she says in a mocking tone. “What does Killian even see in you?”
I try to not let her words bother me, but I can’t help it. I flinch. “I’m not sure. But it doesn’t matter. We’ll be married, and that’s the end of it.”
She squints at me. “Are you crying?”
I dab at my cheek and realize it’s wet. I quickly wipe it away. “No. I’m not.”
“Yes, you are.”
“Lucia.”
“Mia,” she mocks.
“Just stop.”
“You stop.”
I get up from the table in a huff and walk to a quieter corner of the store. My tears are coming out without my permission. I’m flattered Killian would want to marry me, but it hurts to plan this wedding on my own. And to deal with Lucia while I’m at it.
I was doted on as a kid, but now, as an adult, I feel like no one has time for me.
Then an idea occurs.
I pull out my phone and look at Killian’s number. Would he be interested in helping me plan the wedding? It is his wedding, too, after all.
Maybe he would help me feel not so alone.
I try not to feel stupid as I push his number. My heart pounds as I wait for him to pick up. When he does, I can’t speak.
“Hello?” His warm voice is rich in my ear. “Mia?”
“Hi,” I squeak.
“Hi.” I can hear the amusement in his voice. “Glad you called.”
“Yeah.” I roll my eyes, feeling like an idiot. Am I really going to ask a Mafia man to go flower shopping with me?
“Did you need something?”
“Are you busy right now?”
“Not at all,” he replies.
