Page 123 of Rumor Has It

I laugh, searching the room. “Are you joking? We barely know you, and you want us to pretend to love you? No.”

“Yes, you will. This is important for me, and I won’t have the likes of you ruining it.” He pins me with ire.

I brush past him, shielding Rumor as best I can. “We’ll be ready in an hour, but after this little soiree, we’re having a talk.”

I slam the door behind me after letting Rumor in first. “Let’s get showered, and I’ll lay our clothes out.”

“My tummy hurts.” She rubs her belly, while I check her head. She doesn’t have a fever, but my stomach rolls too.

“I bet once you’re in the shower, you’ll feel better.” I help her out of her suit and start the shower.

She drags her feet into the bathroom. “I’m sleepy. Can I take a nap instead?”

“Rumor, what’s going on?” I search her face, looking for any sign from her.

She shrugs. “I’m tired, that’s all.”

“Hurry up, I need to jump in after you.” I shut the door behind her and sprint to the closet to find suitable clothing.

Forty-five minutes later, I finish her hair. I give us both a onceover, nodding with approval. As I open the bedroom door, Reed calls from downstairs.

“Mackenzie, darling. Our guests have started to arrive.”

I curl my lip, disturbed by his terms of endearment. We ease down the steps, peeking around until we spot someone. We pause at the same time, making us snicker.

“There you are.” Reed waves us over. “Late, once again.”

“We can go back, try it another day.” I elbow him.

An older man with a kind spirit chuckles. “Thorton, you’ll need to get use to women being late. It’s our lot in life.”

“Yes, of course, sir.” Reed smoothes his shirt, and I do a double take, checking to see if it is wrinkled or if it is his tail feathers.

“You’re good.” I exchange a smile with the older man.

Reed jerks his head toward the guy. “Mackenzie, this is my boss, Mister Amburgey.” He waves his hand, and I’m not sure if I should curtsey or bow. “Mister Amburgey, Mackenzie Baker. Soon to be, Mackenzie Thorton.”

My head whips around as I gape at him. I feel a pull on my hand before I find words for Reed. “Nice to finally meet you.”

“You also.” I force a smile.

“How are the wedding plans coming?” An older woman joins us, asking things I haven't a clue about.

I give a noncommittal nod. “There are definitely lots of surprises.”

“Isn’t that the way, though. The best laid plans and all.” She sips her drink like it’s hot or something.

I glance to my side to find nothing. I search the room, but don’t see Rumor anywhere. I don’t even take time to excuse myself as I immediately start looking for her.

I rush from room to room, not seeing her anywhere. Turning the corner, I run into Mister Amburgey again. “Oh, excuse me. I’m so sorry, I just looking for my daughter.”

“You mean our daughter, don’t you?” Reed quirks his brow.

“Yes, that’s what I meant to say. So, if you’ll excuse me.” I begin to turn in the opposite direction, and I’m brought up short.

He holds his finger to his mouth. I hear a whimper in the distance accompanied by a deep voice. My heart beats wildly, and I begin to panic. He gestures to the balcony, earning him a mouthed ‘thank you’.

I ease over to the opening, pushing the doors apart with care. Reed is standing over Rumor, shaking his finger at her. A split second later, I’m on him, and I don’t care who hears us.