What am I doing?
As soon as I get home, I schedule everything into my diary so that I won’t be neglecting any of my other clients, typing out everything I need to do and when. Thank goodness I don’t have another wedding on New Year’s Eve.
There’s an email waiting for me from a potential new client who’s getting married next year. I never like to say no to any bride, but I can’t imagine taking on anyone new at the moment. Even though her wedding is next autumn, I wouldn’t be able to fit in any introductions until after Cordelia’s wedding and that may not sit comfortably with her. I reply, explaining that unfortunately I’m not taking on any new clients as my schedule is full, and as I press send, I know that Cara would be proud of me saying no to someone.
You see? I can be sassy.
With my brain so busy, I know I’ll never sleep and I need sleep to get things done. I run myself a bath and force myself to leave my phone in the study. (FINE. Cupboard.) I need to have some time to myself, to close my eyes and relax, soaking in the hot, lavender-scented water.
After just a few minutes, I’m too hot and bored. I get out, guiltily letting out the water—such a waste, next time I’ll shower—and pull on an old T-shirt, brush my teeth, grab my phone, and get into bed. I try to sleep, but keep remembering things I need to do, sitting up and writing them down so I don’t forget them in the morning.
At around 1:00A.M., my phone starts vibrating. I still haven’t managed to sleep. I reach over to grab it. When I see the messages are from Cordelia, I sit bolt upright and turn on the light.
Are you awake?
Hello?
Sophie, wake up!
I’m going to call if you don’t reply
Don’t make me call
I hate calling
Hi! I’m awake. All OK?
Hi, I need your help
Can you come meet me?
Now?
Yes
I’m serious
Is everything OK?
Everything is FINE
But I need your help with something
It’s bridesmaid stuff
It needs to be sorted now
Can you come?
Of course!
Thanks. I’ll send you the address
I’ll meet you there in half an hour
Wear dark clothing
Something you can run in
