I text Maya.
Lily: Do you know anything about rare books?
Maya: Is this for Doctor Mansion?
Lily: His name is Ethan. And yes.
Maya: I know a guy. He runs a rare book shop downtown. Want me to set up an intro?
Lily: You're a lifesaver.
Maya: I know. You can thank me later.
I smile and add "rare book shop" to my list.
By noon, I've contacted three caterers, two florists, and a party rental company. My inbox is overflowing, and my brain feels like it's running on overdrive.
My phone buzzes.
Ethan: How's it going?
My heart does a stupid little flip at seeing his name on my screen.
Lily: Good. Busy. I have some ideas for the gifts but I need to run them by you.
Ethan: Dinner?
I stare at the message.
Dinner. With Ethan.
Lily: Tonight?
Ethan: Unless you're busy.
I should say no. I have the book club meeting at seven.
But the book club meets every week. This job? This is time-sensitive.
Lily: What time?
Ethan: Six thirty? My place?
Lily: I'll be there.
I immediately text the group chat.
Lily: I can't make it tonight. Ethan wants to meet about the party.
Madison: ETHAN. First name basis now???
Chloe: This is getting good.
Holly: Please tell me you're going to his house.
Lily: Yes. For WORK.
Emily: Wear something cute.
