AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Maybe you weren’t ready then, babe. Timing is everything. And it’s not like you’re going to be able to keep your non-divorce a secret forever in this town.”
I groan. “Jesus. I should’ve talked to Brook about telling his parents before they hear it from someone else. I only just saw his mom a few hours ago.”
“They’ll understand. And it isn’t as if it’s your fault. It’s their son who didn’t file the papers, remember?”
“But I should’ve checked up on it. It’s not like I don’t know this man, he gets easily distracted.” I realize I’m only talking about myself and instantly feel guilty. “I forgot to ask how things are going with Michael?” He’s her boyfriend who I haven’t met yet.
“It’s not going so well.”
“Oh, really?”
“Yeah. He gets jealous so easily, which is annoying because I meet so many people with my job. I don’t think I can deal with his insecurity. I think we’re going to take a break.”
“I’m sorry to hear that.”
“Don’t be.” She sighs. “It’s just my parents I’m the most worried about.”
“Are they hassling you again?”
“Yes, given I’m thirty-two and not settled down yet.”
Her parents live in Memphis. And she has a hefty inheritance waiting for her, but the stipulation is she gets married, and only to someone they approve of. I think Michael is one of the suitors they have lined up.
“There’s still time. You don’t have to rush into anything.”
“I know, but I also need the cash flow to expand my business. Not that I’d get married because of that. But I’m thinking of going into wedding videography. Since the Bassett’s are building the new barn, and maybe even a chapel, I thought I might reach out and offer my services.”
“That’s a great idea,” I say. Autumn is an amazing photographer, and there is no other competition in town. She’s photographed many of the weddings I’ve been involved with, and she’s great at her job. I always recommend Autumn Leaf Photography when people from out of town ask who they can hire. “We might all be working for the Bassett’s at this rate.”
She laughs. “That wouldn’t be such a bad thing. Once word gets out that Bloom Weddings and Events has teamed up with Bassett Brothers Distillery, I think you’ll be busier than ever.”
“I certainly hope so.” I can’t help but beam. I still plan to offer outside planning with other venues, but my priority will be promoting the barn and organizing the bookings through their website. It’s a win-win for both sides. If I bring a wedding to them, they get the business of the hire fee and the catering, and I in turn get paid to organize it.
It all comes down to their expectations and how we can all work together. Then there’s the case of me working on the property where I would see a lot more of Brook than I already do.
“It sounds like you have a lot to think about,” she says. “But you should enjoy yourself today. Be a little carefree, and don’t overthink it. You work so hard, babe. And who knows, a little roll in the hay with your husband might be just the thing you both need.”
“Autumn!” I laugh. “There will be no rolling and no hay.”
“Bor-ing,” she sings.
“I’m going now.”
“Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.”
The trouble is, I want to do all of it.
17
Brooklyn
I take Blake back with me as she wants to help with the horses before her mom arrives.
We pick up a few groceries from the store for the picnic. The day is beautiful and it sure would be a shame to not be outdoors. We gotta make the most of the fall weather before the winter starts setting in, which is soon.
I’ve no idea what the hell my mom thinks, and I know it didn’t look good on my part walking out of the bathroom in only my towel. I can’t help but smile when I think about Eden’s face. It sure was a picture.
I get a text when we arrive home from the store, just before we go check on the animals.
