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Sharon exchanged glances with her daughters.
If Ava noticed, she ignored it and continued her speech with a bright smile. “Let’s head down to the spa area. It’s on the bottom floor of the hotel and has wonderful options for you to choose from. Hopefully, it’ll prove to be the most relaxing part of the week.”
Since Ava led the group, Emilie wormed her way to the front of the line, easing up beside her. “Are you doing okay?”
Ava noticed her for the first time. “Oh, hey, Emilie. Yes, I’m fine. I just want everything to go perfectly.”
“What can I help with? How can I relieve some of the burden?”
Without looking at her, Ava shrugged. “I gave you enough to work on with my mom.”
If she could get close to Ava, Emilie could find out what she and Dean talked about. “Are you sure there’s nothing else I can do? I feel bad I couldn’t convince Gail to come. I tried, but she’s really—”
Ava stopped. “It’s not your fault.” Her voice was taut while she stared straight ahead.
Sharon whispered behind them. “What is it?”
Ava’s voice had an edge to it as she continued. “I could use some help with your... fiancé.”
So they were arguing. What hadn’t Dean told Emilie? Irritation rippled through her. “Okay, not sure what he’s got to do with things, but I’ll try. What can I help with?”
Ava stared directly at her, despite the whispers around them. “Let me get everyone where they’re supposed to be. Then we can talk.” She pushed on without waiting for a response.
Emilie took a deep breath to settle her mind. If there were secrets between Dean and Ava, she had a reason to worry. She glanced around. Everyone stared at her. Quickly, she went to the back of the group and followed Ava’s lead to the resort spa.
The reception area was an impressive sight. The smell of citrus candles filled the air, calming her. The dimmed lights matched the soft music playing in the background. She’d been excited to relax and daydream of Dean. It had been a while since Emilie pampered herself, but now she felt like ditching. Even if she left, there was a chance Dean would only tell her what she wanted to hear. She decided to stick it out and hear Ava’s side of the story first.
Ava snapped to get the room’s attention. “Anyone in the wedding party can choose any two complimentary services on this list.” She pointed out a part of the menu on the wall. “Enjoy your freedom before things get hectic.”
“Free, my foot.” Sharon grumbled in front of Emilie. “This place is costing me a small fortune.”
Was Sharon paying for everything? Is that why Ava wanted her mom to come? If that was the case, Emilie was glad Gail chose to stay away. Although it was her daughter, she’d never be able to help Ava out, and that would make things worse. She added that to the list of things she needed to tell Ava.
Emilie sighed and tried to focus on what treatments she wanted. The list of available services included a pedicure, a deep-tissue massage, a facial, or a hot stone massage. She ruled out the pedicure, not wanting anyone to touch her dance-calloused feet. A facial would be fun, and the massage would help calm her nerves with whatever was happening between her and Dean.
Emilie waited until the other women chose and then signed up for a facial. They were led to a large ballroom packed with people waiting at tables. She was glad to see Sharon and her daughters heading away from her to the massage area.
A woman at an empty table gestured to her, and she obliged, laying on her back on the bed. The lady covered her with a warm blanket up to her chin.
“I’ll begin a basic facial, but if there are any trouble areas, let me know.” Her voice rolled over Emilie like undulating waters. As soon as the masseuse’s cool hands touched her face, Emilie closed her eyes and released the tension in her body.
The next few minutes went quickly while her face and neck were rubbed and smoothed at every angle. Right when she started to nod off, Dean’s face flashed into her mind, jolting her. She imagined what the kiss would’ve been like. The truck kiss wasn’t one she’d soon forget, but she wanted something stronger.
I could use some help with your... fiancé.
Before she could start anything with Dean, she wanted the truth, whatever it was, but could she really trust Ava to be honest?
Before too long, the woman gave her a final squeeze, thanked her, and backed away. Her skin tingled, feeling refreshed and sensitive. She sat up too quickly.
The masseuse was beside her in seconds, helping her to her feet. “Do you want a massage as your second service?”
Emilie nodded, too tired to say much. Carrie guided her to a massage table next to where Ava was settling.
“Perfect.” Ava’s voice dripped with sarcasm.
Emilie raised an eyebrow. She was the one who deserved to be annoyed.
Before she could question her, Ava sat up and glowered at her.
