She smiled faintly. “A success by our standards.”
We started walking along the edge of the courtyard, our steps unhurried. The packed snow crunched underfoot. Our breath showed faintly in the air.
“You were incredible in there,” I told her after a few steps.
She looked down as she walked. “I have had a lot of practice doing that.”
Something in her tone tightened my chest.
“You don't have to do everything alone,” I said carefully.
Jane didn't answer right away. Her shoulders rose and fell once, like she was thinking through whether she could accept the statement without immediately rejecting it.
When she spoke, her voice was quieter. “I know. I’m still figuring out how to rely on others I suppose.”
That made sense to me. More than she probably realized. People developed habits for a reason. Jane’s habit was competence. It kept her safe. It kept everyone else safe too, which was probably why she had such a hard time setting it down.
We walked in silence for a bit longer, the sounds from inside fading behind us.
A side door to the inn opened. I glanced over my shoulder and saw Meri step out with purpose. She held her clipboard like a shield. A moment later, the film crew spilled out behind her.
The director looked mildly confused. A cameraman adjusted his grip and nearly stepped into a snowbank. Meri stood with her arms crossed, blocking the doorway as if she had decided the outside world was closed for repairs.
James appeared in the doorway, his scarf slung too casually, his expression annoyed.
“I don't understand why I cannot simply speak to the guests,” James insisted.
Meri’s voice carried clearly even from across the courtyard. “Because the guests are trying to enjoy themselves. Also, the camera crew is standing in the path where people are walking. I don't want someone to sue the inn because they tripped over a cable.”
James gestured. “This is a professional production.”
Meri nodded. “Great. Then it can be professionally out of the way.”
“I think you aren’t trying to keep me busy at all. I know your true motive,” James suddenly declared.
Meri tilted her head and narrowed her eyes. “Oh?”
“You are monopolizing my time because you have a crush on me,” James proudly stated.
Meri’s jaw dropped. “Puke! Now it’s time for you all to go away until the wedding tomorrow.”
Meri stepped aside just enough to let the film crew shuffle back inside with reluctant obedience. James followed, still talking. Meri closed the door after them with a calm finality.
Jane’s shoulders loosened as she watched. I saw it happen. It was quick, but it was there.
“You like Meri,” I noted.
Jane’s mouth curved. “Meri is terrifying.”
“She is effective,” I said.
“She’s very effective,” she agreed. Jane glanced up at me. “Thank you for distracting him earlier this week.”
“You’re welcome.” I hesitated then decided to take the opening. “I don't like the way he talks about you.”
Jane’s gaze dropped to the snow again, and her pace slowed half a step.
“I don't like it either,” she admitted.
