“The business is thriving, and her receptionist doesn’t work weekends, so I helped in her studio and out on the floor while Zara managed some of the accounts.”
“I assumed Zara was busy at the hotel.”
“She had extra staff today.” She gives me a coy smile while touching her hair. “About the other night. Are we forgiven?”
No. Yes. “Your little scheme worked, but you’re both never to be trusted again.”
She giggles and swipes two champagne glasses off the silver tray a waiter holds. “Thank you,” she says and hands one to me.
“Wait.” I take another. “I need both.”
She cocks her head. “I thought we won.”
“We did.” I lean closer to her ear. “BJ’s parents are here. They’ll arrive soon to meet the suits, so I’m readying my nerves.”
She places an arm on my forearm, giving me a pitiful look. “Meeting you all was so nerve-wracking. You were all kind to me, but it was hard to understand why you’d accept someone like me into a prestigious family.”
“Someone like you? Um… you’re perfect for my brother. And if Franklin chose you, then we were happy because that man is so hard to please in his perfect freaking world.”
She giggles. “Nonetheless, it’s hard when you want a family to accept you for you.” She wraps a hand around my waist and kisses my cheek. “They’ll love you. Not only because you’re the only woman BJ has ever wanted but alsobecause you are one of the best humans I know. Something you understand in seconds after meeting you.”
I lay my head on her shoulder. “Thanks, sis.”God, I love saying that after growing up in a family of brothers.
She pats my back. “I’ll clue Franklin in, so if you’re looking anxious, I’ll send him over. He’ll talk nonstop about the team’s direction, how BJ has helped secure the finals, and all the stuff I have to listen to post-games.”
I laugh. “At least it will distract them from how I hurt their son.”
Penny looks me in the eye. “But you didn’t.Heran and destroyed what you had. You only wanted him to man up.”
“It’s more than likely not the story they heard. They would have only heard about his heartbreak and being outcast and traded.”
“A tradeheinitiated,” she whispers. “You have nothing to be ashamed of. Hold your head high and be happy to see them. It’s difficult to be angry with happy people.”
“This is true.” My shoulders relax somewhat. I finish the last of my champagne and place my glass on the table.
“So the plan is to speak highly of their son and tell them how glad you are that he came back to play with the LA Sharks and what an amazing player he is. All praise and positivity. Then I’ll send Franklin over to reiterate the joy, and you can speak quietly with BJ.”
“Got it.” I smile at Penny. “Thank you.”
“It’s what sisters do, Lottie.” She loops her arm around my elbow. “Now, shall we inform Frank of our plan before they arrive?”
“I’ll leave it to you. There are sponsors who require my attention while my mood is positive.” I look at her still-full champagne glass. “You’re not drinking.”
“I’m not in the mood. She hands it to me before making a beeline toward her husband, who is talking to Walter.Oh,God, please don’t say anything in front of that man.She leans into Franklin and speaks, and then Walter gives her a nod, walking away.
Look at that. Maybe I need Penny on the board to support me.
“Hello, Charlotte.” My body stiffens at the Australian accent.
I turn around and look directly into the eyes of Brandon’s mother—blue eyes like his and blonde curls, now peppered with gray. Her tanned face and arms are from sunshine and not any beauty spray. The lines have deepened around her eyes since the last time.
“Mrs. Johns.” I lean in and hug her. Surprisingly, she tightens her arms around me. “It’s wonderful to see you again. I mean, how many years has it been?”
“About five. Too long, anyways.” She steps back, holding both of my arms. “Let me see you.” She smiles brightly. “You’re as beautiful as I remember. No wonder our son is smitten by you.”
Her comment shocks me, and I’m sure my face shows it. “Thank you. You also look fabulous. I hope you enjoyed the game.”
“We always enjoy seeing our son play, but as you know, most games are watched on the television. We only made it to the East Coast once a year over the last three years. We were thankful for him to come home each year. Two years ago, we decided to have a white Christmas, and I have to say that it was my favorite. A nice break from the heat this time of year.”
