Page 45 of I Loved You First

He stopped in the doorway as Fiona showed Brady how to tie off the balloon. Their heads were tucked close together as Fi’s graceful fingers guided Brady’s.

“That’s it. Now pull on that end piece right there.”

Following Fiona’s directions, Brady’s eyes grew wide as he grinned. “I did it!”

Fiona grinned back. “Yes, you did! You’re an official balloon-tying pro.”

Brady smiled again. “Uh-huh.”

Cam knocked on the doorframe. “We need to head out, buddy. Practice starts soon.”

“Okay.” Brady stood, wrapping his arms around Fiona’s neck. “Thanks for teaching me how to do balloon stuff.”

She hugged him back. “You’re welcome. Thanks for making this the best part of my day.”

Brady eased away, walking over to Cam, still talking to Fiona. “Don’t forget to watch me play soccer. Because you’re still my best friend.”

Fiona grinned. “You and your dad can decide when it’s a good day, and I’ll come watch.”

Brady took Cam’s hand. “Okay.”

“Bye, guys.”

Cam tossed her a nod. “Good luck with the controlled chaos.”

“Thanks.” Her laugh followed them to the common area.

thirteen

Fiona scanned the mile-long list on her iPad while a waiter placed a large baked brie and fruit tray on the long table. A decorative basket of various crackers came next. “Those are the gluten-free variety?” she asked.

The waiter nodded. “I took them out of the packaging myself.”

She had no idea if Brady even liked brie, but she’d ensured he would have several snacking options at his great-grandpa’s party. “That’s perfect. Thank you so much.”

“No problem.”

Her gaze wandered to the white lily and blue hydrangea table flowers and arrangements she’d placed around the gorgeous garden-front room, then to the deejay already set up by the dance floor. She noted the waitstaff preparing the shrimp cocktail and oyster bar and the chef readying his carving station. The cake table looked like perfection, with the gluten-free buttercream cupcakes arranged and complimenting the two-tiered work of art.

“It’s exactly right,” she muttered, satisfied that Maple Ridge Country Club was more than proficient at pulling together a last-minute event. But she wasn’t all that surprised. The facility’s upscale reputation and spectacular mountain views made it a popular wedding destination.

Ready for the finishing touches, she grabbed a lighter from the shelf, lighting the various tapers, votives, and pillar candles scattered throughout the massive space.

Nearly twenty minutes later, the deejay started his first set as she lit the last wick. She turned a quick circle, making certain everything was all set for the one hundred and two confirmed guests who would be arriving shortly.

“Oh my goodness. This place is gorgeous.”

Fiona smiled as Ellie and Danny walked in, both of them looking fantastic as their gazes tracked around the room. Ellie wore her hair in a simple updo that complemented her summery seafoam-blue dress and pretty face, and Danny had chosen khaki slacks and a dark-blue sports coat. “I’m glad you like it.”

Danny’s friendly blue eyes sparkled as he grinned. “Fiona, it’s been way too long, honey.”

She stepped into his arms, holding on as the only father figure she’d ever known wrapped her in a tight hug. His sideburns were more gray than dark brown, yet he was just as handsome and fit as she remembered. Cam had inherited Danny’s height and great smile. “It’s so good to see you.”

He eased back. “You’re as beautiful as ever. And you’ve made this place shine.”

“Thank you.” She hugged Ellie next. “You look lovely tonight.”

“Right back at you, baby doll.” She kissed Fiona’s cheek. “I don’t know how to thank you for making this happen for us.”