Barbara smiled.“You’re sounding more like Penny every day.”
“I can’t help it.We’ve spent a lot of time talking about the cottages she wants to remodel.Now I can’t see a building without imagining what it could become.”
“Has the county given her permission to redevelop them, yet?”
“She should know by next Tuesday.”
Katie snapped another photo, then slid her phone into her pocket.“It’s time to go.Mom’s waving at us.”
Diana sighed.“Whatever you do, don’t mention my wedding.”
Barbara looked down the main street of Bozeman before crossing the road.Talking about Diana’s wedding was better than letting her mom ask questions about Theo.Mabel had already taken an active interest in how much time they were spending together.If she wasn’t careful, her mom would start another wedding diary for her.
KATIE TURNEDin a slow circle in the middle of the boutique.“This is amazing.I want to live here.”
As crazy as it sounded, Barbara could imagine her sister turning the boutique into an incredible apartment.With its French bohemian interior, it was everything Katie had ever wanted.The deep red, shimmery walls with gilt-framed mirrors and antique light fixtures suited Katie to perfection.She could see her curled around one of the colorful silk cushions on an overstuffed sofa, writing her latest novel.
Even the Persian rugs added a touch of glamour to the building.
“Welcome to my boutique.I’m Emily.”A petite woman about their age with red hair and bright blue eyes grinned at Katie.“I’m glad you like the store.”
“I love everything about it.”
“Many years ago, it was a library.It took a lot of time to remodel, but I’m glad we brought the building back to life.”
Barbara’s eyes drifted up the curved staircase in the middle of the room.Above it, an enormous crystal chandelier caught the sunlight streaming through the stained-glass windows.Prisms of multi-colored light spun across the room, adding a touch of magic to the large space.
“We’re so grateful you could see us,” Mabel said.
“I’m happy to help.”
Mabel touched Penny’s arm.“This is my daughter, Penny, who’s getting married on Thanksgiving Day.Diana’s behind her.She’s engaged, too.We’re hoping for a Christmas wedding, but we’ll have to wait and see.Katie and Barbara are beside Diana.”
Katie grinned.“We’re still single.”
“It’s nice to meet you all.When you’re ready, would you like to start with Penny’s wedding dress, the bridesmaids’ dresses, or a mother-of-the-bride outfit?”
Mabel looked at Penny.“Start with the bridal gown.Whatever Penny decides will make our dress choices easier.”
“That’s a good idea.”Emily turned to Penny.“I’ve hung the dress you like in the fitting room.If you’d like to see other gowns, there are plenty to choose from.”With a warmth that relaxed Penny’s worried expression, Emily led them through a curtained-off area.
Barbara’s eyes widened when she saw the table on one side of the room.A set of pretty glasses, a pitcher of lemonade, and a plate of muffins were waiting for them.If Emily treated all her clients to this sort of welcome it was no wonder she was so popular.
“I’ve organized something for you to eat and drink while Penny slips into the first dress.”
“Everything looks lovely,” Mabel said.
“We won’t be too long.”Emily chatted to Penny as she led her into another curtained-off area.
“This is so exciting,” Katie whispered.“I’m glad Mom found Emily’s boutique.”
Barbara handed their mom a glass of lemonade.“So am I.”
When Penny emerged from the fitting room, Barbara’s jaw dropped.The simple, silk sheath looked stunning.“You look amazing.”
Penny’s eyes filled with tears.“I don’t…I didn’t think…It’s beautiful.”
Mabel took a handful of tissues out of her pocket and gave some to Penny.“Oh, dear.We’ve only just started and I’m already crying.”
