‘Here we go, the moment of truth,’ said Guy, pressing play on the remote control and sitting back with his arms folded.
They watched as Libby selected the invitations on the screen, which Miranda approved, and then Libby typed in the details. ‘Is it possible to zoom in to see the information I’m typing on the invitation?’
Guy pressed a couple of buttons and the image on the screen enlarged. Libby gave a tiny gasp. ‘See, it’s there in black and white. I’ve entered the correct details.’
‘You have indeed,’ confirmed Guy, sitting up straighter, still watching the video closely as he zoomed back out. ‘So how did it get changed?’
With their eyes fixed firmly at the screen, they watched Libby stand up and excuse herself before she headed to the bathroom. ‘But you’re still there,’ murmured Libby.
‘No, I was outside for this. I got a phone call and headed out just before you did,’ Guy said, taking a sideward glance towards Libby. ‘This could be interesting.’
‘Oh my God. Look!’ Libby grabbed on to Guy’s arm as they watched Miranda take a quick look towards the doors before typing on the keyboard. ‘She’s actually changing the date and the time. We have got to show this to Flynn. He isn’t going to like it but I’m still confused about why she would do that.’
‘Flynn can show Miranda the video while he’s asking her that very question. I’d think that this violates the competition agreement as it’s clear evidence that the bride was attempting to sabotage things. He would be able to cancel the wedding. Look, there’s more. Miranda is making a call.’
Guy turned the volume up.
‘David, it’s me, I’ve managed to change the date and time. It’s done.’ Miranda gave a cackle like a pantomime villain then hung up the phone. She then sat back in her chair with a look on her face like butter wouldn’t melt. She never even flinched when Libby walked back into the room and asked if it all looked okay. ‘I can’t believe I didn’t check it over once more before pressing send.’
‘Flynn’s gut feeling was right, but why would they want to sabotage their own wedding and/or attempt to ruin Starcross Manor’s reputation?’ Guy asked. ‘What are they gaining from it?’
‘That’s what we need to find out.’ Libby was thinking fast. ‘We know that David knows Jenny, so what’s the connection between them and does it have something to do with why Jenny resigned?’
‘And we still need to find out what happened with the application form.’
‘I’m going to ask Miranda to bring in identification and a copy of their application form when she comes for her dress fitting appointment today.’
‘And if she asks why?’ probed Guy.
‘Because they’ve won a major competition worth thousands of pounds and we need to verify they are who they say they are.’
‘Good thinking, then we can do a little snooping.’
‘We?’ Libby questioned.
‘Oh, I’m completely invested in uncovering what these two are up to,’ Guy confirmed.
‘I’m going with Flynn to see Jenny this afternoon after Miranda has been for her dress fitting.’
‘Looks like we may both have an afternoon of it after the fitting…’ Guy rolled his eyes and exhaled. ‘Sophie rang while I was in the coffee shop. We’ve arranged to meet this afternoon to discuss Holly’s future living arrangements and schooling. I have to say I’m not looking forward to it.’
Libby could see that Guy was worried. ‘I’ve got a good feeling about it,’ she said encouragingly. ‘Just stay positive.’
‘I’m glad I have you on my side.’
‘You better believe it,’ she replied, leaning in for a kiss like it was the most natural thing in the world.
ChapterEighteen
Sitting waiting for Miranda to arrive, Libby knew she needed to keep what they had discovered under wraps. As discussed with Guy, Libby had rung ahead of today’s appointment and asked her to bring in identification and a copy of the application form. Miranda was on time and breezed in through the door.
‘Good morning,’ chirped Libby, making sure she sounded as bright as possible to avoid arousing any suspicion. ‘How are you? I’m looking forward to the fitting. We just need to confirm the measurements before I sew it all together.’ Libby gestured towards the dress that was pinned together on the mannequin.
Miranda gasped. ‘It’s beautiful and the quality of the material… It hangs so elegantly.’
‘Doesn’t it?’ replied Libby. ‘Before we get started, have you got your identification with you and a copy of the application form?’
Miranda reached in her bag. ‘Passports and driver’s licence.’ She handed them over. ‘But I’m sorry we don’t have a copy of the form.’
