Page 13 of It Could Happen
“Sort of,” I repeat.
Leslie narrows her eyebrows. I’m not sure what her problem with me is.
“What do you mean?” Erica asks, looking confused. “You already met?”
“Oh, we justparkednext to each other,” Tyler says innocently. “Tori’s car was rather close to my truck.”
Wow, he’s really trying to push my buttons.
“Actually, Tyler could use some lessons parking that truck of his,” I suggest.
“That truck is badass,” Matt chimes in.
“Thanks, man,” Tyler says, gratefully. “It is, isn’t it?”
“I like it too,” Leslie coos. “I’m still waiting on my invitation to drive it.”
She gives me a look, clearly staking her claim on Tyler, which is fine with me. My main focus is supporting Caroline, not picking up men. I’m not sure hers is the same.
“Ah, sorry, Les. He doesn’t let anyone drive his pride and joy,” Christian says with a laugh.
“Maybe you can make an exception?” Leslie says, gently placing her hands on Tyler’s arm.
I do an internal eye roll. Gag. I think it’s time for me to mingle, not to mention, I’m starving.
I excuse myself to visit the buffet table. As soon as I have a small plate of food, Caroline calls me over and introduces me to Jeannie. She’s very friendly, and I’m actually glad she’s a part of the bridal party because the other girls seem to have their tribe in place. I get the impression that Leslie isn’t thrilled about me infringing on their clique. Why are some women like this? I don’t think I’ll ever understand.
After we eat, Erica gathers all the bridesmaids and starts spouting off plans for the bridal shower, the bachelorette party, dress fittings and champagne, and a bridal brunch with the matriarch (otherwise known as Caroline’s grandmother). I must be out of the loop about what’s hot when it comes to wedding festivities. Rachel, Leslie, and Jeannie are all making notes in their phones, so I quickly follow their lead. Thankfully, Erica tells us she’s put together a schedule and will be emailing it out to us.
“The next few months are going to be very busy,” Erica says. “But, if we all stay on top of things, it’ll be a breeze.”
“I’m happy to help with anything you need,” I reiterate.
“Excellent,” she gives me a grateful smile. “Obviously, all the big events will take place in Georgia. Caroline’s mother and the wedding planners have those under control. We will host a shower down here because Caroline wanted to make it easier for the majority of her friends. Her mother will come down here for that.”
Admittedly my head is spinning a bit. I knew there would be a lot going on. I just have to add it to my planner, and then I’ll feel better.
Once the party is well underway and Erica is done with all the bridesmaid business, I’m able to sit and catch up with Caroline.
“How did you meet Erica and the others?” I ask.
She smiles. “Believe it or not, Erica and I met at Target.”
I laugh. “Really? That’s amazing.”
“Yes, we were looking at décor, and we realized we kept picking out the exact same items. We decided at that moment we were meant to be best friends. And Andy and Christian are also best friends, so it’s perfect.”
“What about Leslie and Rachel?”
“Leslie and Erica work together. One day they were having lunch and Erica invited me to join them. That was the beginning of our friendship, and now we try to do lunch together at least once a week.”
I nod.
“Rachel and I met through another mutual friend who’s since moved to Australia. The odd thing is that we both lost touch with her, but Rachel and I stayed friends. Before I knew it, she started joining Erica, Leslie and me, and we all just clicked. The four of us are practically inseparable now.”
Caroline pauses and looks down at her hands.
“Tori, I feel terrible that we haven’t seen each other in so long. I—”
