“Yes, though we have some concerns about the projection mapping she’s described. The ceiling height in the garden space creates challenges.” The designer flipped through his tablet, showing me the technical specifications.
Mari crossed her arms, drawing my attention to her chest before I forced my gaze back to her face. “Which I’ve already addressed by suggesting we use the new XL-5000 projectors with enhanced throw distance.”
I tilted my head as I glanced down at the designer’s tablet and up at the ceiling. “Honestly, that might work. What’s the issue?”
The lighting designer coughed uncomfortably, adjusting his collar. “The XL-5000s do have superior calibration capabilities, but they require an additional power supply. We’re not sure that the venue is equipped to handle that load.”
“Well, why don’t we discuss it with Penelope?” I asked, stepping back from the light designer and sticking my hands in my pockets. “I’m sure we can work this out.”
Mari watched me with a guarded gaze, and I couldn’t tell if it was a good thing or a bad thing. “So you agree we should try to use the newer projectors?”
I shrugged. “I think it’s our best shot at achieving the vision the clients want after you put it in the couple’s minds.”
“Oh, okay. Good. Great.” She gave me another skeptical look before turning to the light designer. “I’ll go find Penelope.”
For the next hour, we toured the venue with the light designer and Penelope, debating placement, intensity, and programming for the various spaces. By the end of the consultation, we had a comprehensive lighting plan that was both innovative and practical.
“Well, that was…surprisingly easy,” Mari said as the lighting designer walked out with Penelope. “Did a small piece of you die when you agreed with me?”
I chuckled, scratching the side of my face. “I think maybe,” I replied, watching her hop up to sit on one of the tables, legs swinging, sundress riding up her thighs. I forced myself to look at her face. “But using the newer projectors makes sense to me.”
“So you’re saying I was right?”
“There’s nothing wrong with ensuring the couple’s vision using new equipment.”
“I’m taking that as a yes.” She tilted her head, studying me with an intensity that made me want to loosen my tie.
“You’re staring at me.”
“I’m waiting for you to implode.”
“Don’t hold your breath.”
She rolled her eyes. “So what was this fancy call about with Modern Wedding?”
I stiffened as my stomach dropped. “Oh, uh, just an interview for my business.”
She hopped down from the table, moving closer. “Just an interview with the hottest wedding magazine?”
“I mean, yeah.” I shrugged, trying to look casual. “Eleanor Trolio is interested in featuring Perfect Day Planning in Modern Wedding. Nothing major.”
Mari stared at me, her blue eyes narrowing. “Nothing major? Gable, that’s like saying the Kardashians have a ‘small social media presence.’ Modern Wedding isthewedding magazine.” She stepped closer, her citrus and vanilla perfume wafting around me. “What did you pitch her?”
“I didn’t pitch anything,” I said, which was technically true. I hadn’t pitched anything. I’d just let Eleanor believe Mari’s innovations were mine. My stomach clenched. “She approached me.”
“Approached you about what?” Mari pressed, crossing her arms.
“My approach to planning.”
She raised an eyebrow. “Why haven’t you been obnoxiously bragging and rubbing it in my face?”
I rolled my eyes, grateful she’d given me the perfect way out. “Because unlike you, I have class. Besides, I don’t think about you as much as you seem to think about me.”
“Uh huh. Sure, pal.” Mari studied me. “Well, congratulations. I’d say I’m surprised, but that would be a lie.” She tilted her head. “So, what’s this ‘approach’ exactly?”
I loosened my tie. “Look, we should head back to the office. I’ve got a wedding consultation at four.”
“That’s not for another two hours,” she pointed out. “And you still haven’t told me what caught Eleanor Trolio’s attention.”
