Carol nodded. “Okay, now that we have that settled, let’s talk about what’s next. We need to punch up the emotional stakes in today’s shoot. The cabinet install is a big on-camera moment for you two. Lots of banter. Flirtations. And Beau, if anything arises that causes Lila concern, I want you to rush in to protect her. We’ll get it all on camera.”
“What do you mean, if anything arises?” I asked. Did they have something planned to create tension? I’d watched enough of these shows to imagine what it could be—termites, mold, some conveniently timed problem that would cost the client more money.
“You be yourself,” Carol said. “Viewers want to see real emotion.”
“What am I about to get emotional about?” I asked, dread pooling in my stomach.
“We’re thinking we shoot some pickup shots of you two inside the kitchen, talking about your inspiration,” Carol said. “Then we’ll go from there. Whatever happens, just go with it.”
Whatever happens.
“I don’t like the sound of that.” I frowned. “Like what?”
“Nothing big,” Kenzie said breezily. “Just something that will bring a little tension. Stakes. Maybe you’re frustrated with the delays, and Beau tries to smooth it over. It’ll read really well.”
I knew it wasn’t worth fighting about now. I had a job to do. Sorting through this mess would have to wait until I’d completed what I’d promised.
That was becoming harder and harder to do as the month went on.
I was distracted by a text from Vance.
Vance
Hey, baby. Taking the girls down to Wrenport for the day. Will send photos! I’m thinking about you. The girls and I are so proud of you.
Lila
I’m glad to hear you have a fun day planned. Mine is going about as expected. I’ll look forward to seeing you tonight. XO
Vance
Hang in there. I believe in you.
Thank goodness someone did because right now I was as full of self doubt as I’d ever been in my life.
16
VANCE
To distract the girls and myself from worrying about Lila at work, I suggested we drive down to Wrenport for the day. Delphine had asked if Annie could spend the day with us, and Mia enlisted Grace as well, so I decided I’d take all four girls out for some fun.
The sun had just burned through the morning fog by the time we pulled into Wrenport. The little seaside town always reminded me of a painting, with its weathered cottages tucked along cliffs and wind-swept cypress trees leaning toward the ocean as if to gather its secrets. Wooden signs painted in cheerful blues and greens swayed above shop doors, and seagulls called out from their perches on the shingled rooftops. The storefronts were a patchwork of color—mossy greens, faded marigolds, seafoam blues.
The salty breeze hit us the moment we stepped out of the car, carrying the scent of brine, driftwood, and fried seafood. Wrenport perched on the cliffs like a secret waiting to be found.
The girls spilled onto the sidewalk with wide eyes. Margot stayed close to my side, her hand finding mine.
“This place is awesome,” Annie said.
“Have you been here before?” I asked.
“I think so, but it’s been a long time,” Grace said. “My mom always says it’s too far of a drive.”
“Mine hates those curvy roads we have to take to get here,” Mia said.
“I’ve never been anywhere like this,” Margot said quietly, looking up at the colorful buildings.
“Really? Not even in France?” Grace asked.
