— Grandmother was generous with the invitations, she admits. She considers this wedding a community event.
— Of course, why not, I mutter. The more the merrier…
— The more gifts, Keira adds cheerfully.
I spot Callum at the other end of the room, deep in conversation with an older man proudly wearing a kilt. He looks elegant in his dark suit, his hair perfectly styled, his posturestraight and confident. Even from a distance, I feel my heart give a small, traitorous leap.
He looks up at that exact moment, as if sensing my gaze, and our eyes meet across the room. A faint smile curves his lips, and he gives me a small nod.
— Oh wow, Keira comments beside me. What was that?
— What?
— That telepathic communication you just had. I practically saw sparks between you.
— You have quite the imagination, Keira McGregor.
— And you are in denial, Jane Carter-soon-to-be-McGregor.
Before I can reply, we’re interrupted by Lachlan’s booming arrival, already slightly drunk judging by his wide grin and flushed cheeks.
— The two most beautiful women of the evening! he exclaims, throwing an arm around each of us. Jane, you look radiant! Callum is one lucky man.
— Thank you, Lachlan, I reply politely.
— Tell me, he whispers, leaning closer, do you have any friends as charming as you in Hollywood? Because I was thinking, if the wedding goes well, maybe?—
Savannah flashes through my mind and I nearly choke on my champagne. There could not be a worse match than my best friend and Lachlan McGregor.
— Lachlan, Keira interrupts, focus on your drink. I think there’s still a drop or two at the bottom.
— Excellent idea! he agrees, wandering off as quickly as he arrived.
— Is he always like this? I ask.
— Lachlan? Oh yes. And this is him almost sober and relatively distinguished, she informs me. Wait until you see him after a few glasses of whisky.
— I can’t wait, I reply dryly.
I notice Maggie making her entrance, majestic in a long midnight-blue dress, adorned with a tartan shawl and jewelry that must be worth a small fortune. She spots Callum and heads toward him with purpose.
— I think your grandmother wants to talk to Callum, I say to Keira.
— Uh oh, she comments, following my gaze. The pre-banquet strategy meeting. Poor Callum.
Indeed, I see Callum stiffen slightly as Maggie speaks to him. He nods several times, like a student receiving instructions from a particularly demanding teacher.
Then, to my surprise, Maggie turns in my direction and beckons me over.
— I think I’m being summoned, I murmur.
— Good luck, Keira smiles. If she mentions ancient tradition, run.
I make my way toward them, weaving through guests who openly stare at me with curiosity.
— Ah, Jane, there you are! Maggie exclaims as I join them. You look lovely, my dear.
— Thank you, Maggie. You look very elegant as well.
