Page 106 of Meant to be Mine

We found parking a block away and walked toward the event. The closer we got, the more impressive it looked. The food trucks were already serving, the smells making my empty stomach rumble. Models moved through the crowd in pieces from the summer collection, letting people see the clothes up close. It was perfect.

“This is incredible, honey,” Mom said, squeezing my arm.

I scanned the crowd, looking for familiar faces. I didn’t see Edith or Drew. What I did see was Micah near the main entrance, sipping a green drink.

“I’ll be right back,” I told my parents. “I’m going to check in with Micah.”

I made my way through the crowd, weaving between clusters of shoppers. Micah spotted me before I reached him, his face breaking into a relieved smile.

“Kensey! Finally. I wasn’t sure you were coming.”

“I almost didn’t,” I admitted. “How’s everything going?”

“Smooth as butter so far. A couple of minor hiccups, but nothing major.” He glanced down at his tablet. “Drew should be back soon.”

My heart lurched. “Back? Where did he go?”

“Not sure. He took off about an hour ago. Said he had something to handle. I’m in charge in the meantime.” Micah looked up at me. “Everything okay?”

“I’m fine,” I lied. “Just didn’t sleep well. Today’s a big day.”

He nodded. “Well, I’m glad you’re here. The Blackwell clan is arriving around noon. Max and Tiana, the whole crew from New York. It’s going to be a circus.” He grinned. “A very expensive, very photogenic circus.”

I tried to smile back, but my face felt frozen. “Have you seen Edith?” I asked, trying to keep my voice casual.

“No, I’ve been out here,” he said. “If she’s anywhere, she’ll probably be inside the store. She didn’t anything to do with the Blackwell Summer stuff, according to Drew.” Micah nodded toward something behind me. “I think someone is trying to get your attention.”

I turned and saw Hollis waving me over to his booth. He was soft launching his wellness brand, B. Well. His setup was impressive—sleek white displays with green accents, candles arranged in perfect rows, and a blender station where he was mixing up samples of something green. I suddenly knew where Micah had gotten his drink.

“Kensey!” Hollis thrust a cup into my hand before I could protest. “You look like you need a green shake. I promise, this stuff works miracles.”

I stared at the thick green liquid dubiously. “What’s in it?”

“Gifts from Mother Nature herself.”

I rolled my eyes at him. “Really, Hollis?”

“Too much?” he asked with a grin. “I’m still hammering out the marketing side of things. For now, I just wanted to make healthy things that taste good. Which this does.” He paused and leaned in close to me. “I know it looks like pond water, but I swear it’s good.”

I took a tentative sip, expecting to gag. Instead, the flavors hit my tongue in a surprisingly pleasant way. I tasted banana, and something nutty. Definitely some kale. The combination was bright and uplifting.

“Okay, wow,” I said. “This is actually really good.”

“Told you.” He handed samples to a couple of women who’d stopped to browse. “The ingredients will help with energy levels. You’ll feel better in about twenty minutes. And that’s not marketing bullshit. You’ll see.”

I took another drink and hoped his promise was real. There wasn’t a lot of pep in my step.

“Thank you, Hollis,” I said, turning to leave.

“Be well,” he called after me and I couldn’t help but roll my eyes again.

The event was in full swing now. The other stores lining the plaza had set up things in front of their shops, getting in on the action. They were all busy because of the foot traffic. Blackwell Couture wouldn’t be the only one making big sales today.

The DJ was playing upbeat jazz that added to the festive atmosphere. I watched people dancing, laughing, and taking selfies all over the place. The sidewalk sale was the place to be today. I suspected it would get a lot more crowded as the day went on. This was what we’d worked toward and it was a success.

My parents appeared with plates of tacos from one of the food trucks, both of them looking delighted.

“This is wonderful, honey,” Mom said around a mouthful. “You should be so proud. What a great way to bring the community together for a nice day out.”