Page 81 of It Could Happen
As soon as Parker and I return to the office, Shannon is waiting for me at my desk. I’m a bit surprised because she’s barely uttered a word to me since Spencer announced that I had been given the director job.
“Hi, Shannon. What’s up?”
“Are you planning to give all your clients to Parker?” she demands. “I know you two are besties, but that wouldn’t be fair.”
I shake my head. “Actually, no. My list is being divided among everyone. I’ve recommended who I believe would be a good fit for each client, and I’ll be contacting them individually to explain the change and make introductions.”
A look of relief passes across her face. “Good.”
I clear my throat. “Shannon, I know things have been awkward since the announcement was made, but I’m hoping we can move forward and work together to make this office better than ever.”
“Sure,” she says, walking away.
I sigh. She’ll have to get over it eventually. Until then, office life is definitely going to be interesting.
When I check my phone, I have two back-to-back missed calls from Caroline. I’m about to send her a text when my phone rings again. Ugh. This must be important.
“Hey, darlin’.”
“Oh, Tori, I’m so glad you answered,” she says, ignoring my playful greeting. “Why didn’t you say anything?”
My stomach begins to twist into knots. Is this about Rachel? It wasn’t my news to tell.
“Um, I’m not sure what you’re referring to?” I ask, my voice shaking.
“Your parents,” she wails. “I completely forgot to send them an invitation to the wedding. You must think I’m awful and inconsiderate.”
My parents? What the hell? Did my mom reach out to her?
“Caroline, please don’t worry about it. It’s totally fine.”
“It’s not fine. I need your mother’s address and phone number,” she insists. “The planners are overnighting an invitation, and I will call her personally. I know it’s late notice, but I want them to know they are invited.”
My mother is going to be thrilled.
“Well, that’s very sweet of you,” I say. “And unnecessary. You barely know my parents.”
“So what?” she continues, “I barely know a lot of the guests.”
That’s exactly what Tyler said.
“I feel so terrible,” she repeats. “My mother and I were going over the guest list with the planners, and when I saw that everyone else’s parents had responded, it hit me.”
She continues telling me about two of her mother’s friends who are now sworn enemies, so they have to rearrange some of the seating arrangements. There’s never a dull moment when you’re planning a wedding.
“Anyway, I’ll take care of it, and I’ll see you in a few days in the Peach State.”
“Can’t wait, darlin’. It’s going to be an unforgettable weekend.”
“I hope so, sweet pea,” she says, her voice uneasy.
She gets off the phone so she can call my mom. Plans or not, I know my parents will be at this wedding.
ChapterTwenty
Ican’t believe the big weekend has finally arrived. It feels like just yesterday when I received the bridesmaid welcome package. I guess it’s true that time flies when you’re having fun, or sort of.
When I arrive at the Georgia Estate and Spa,I’m in awe. The pictures didn’t do it justice, but do they ever? The estate is set back on sprawling green hills, and the winding cobblestone road leading up to the entrance is lined with magnolia trees.
