Page 160 of Seale the Deal

Agreed, Audrey says. My mascara can’t take much more. She sniffles.

Oh, Audrey, the veil, Beryl says suddenly.

Right, it’s in my car. Audrey laughs and heads toward the back door. I’ll go get it.

I’ll get the steamer set up, Beryl says and disappears to the back.

Then it’s just me and Remi.

She reaches out and runs her fingers along the silk dress. You really do look beautiful, she says.

Thank you.

I look in the mirror and barely recognize the woman looking back at me. Gone is the lost soul who saw marriage as a way to regain control of her life. I have people who care about me. A future that doesn’t have to just be about my career if I don’t want it to.

Most importantly, I have myself. And that’s starting to feel like a whole hell of a lot more than I ever thought possible.

A phone vibrates.

Remi picks up her phone. Not me.

Must be mine, I say. Can you pass it to me?

She does.

A part of me is hopeful that it’s Ruger, but I know better than to get carried away. Ruger is a man of his word. Even after everything that’s happened between us, he’s still prepared to stand at the altar tomorrow because he made a promise. And if he said he’d give me space, he’ll keep that promise too. The chances of him reaching out are basically non-existent.

The notification is an email. My heart races when I see the name Tammie Roswell in bold.

Oh my God. I hold the phone out to Remi. What do I do?

Remi basically suction cups to my side, clinging to my arm, eyes wide. Open it.

I do.

To: Wrenley St. James

From: Tammie Roswell

Subject: FOLLOW UP: Re: Costume Designer Opportunity

Wrenley,

I hope you’re doing well.

I wanted to check in as I haven’t heard from you, and I wanted to make sure I gave you a chance to respond before the deadline passes. I know this is a significant decision, and a big move, but I truly believe it would be a wonderful opportunity for you.

My colleagues remain very interested in bringing you on board, mentioning you to me earlier today. I do need a final answer before I can move anything forward.

Whatever you decide, I wish you the very best.

Regards,

Tammie Roswell

President & Creative Director

Halcyon House