Page 7

“You can just call me Nick, babe,” he replies.

“Have a good evening, Nick, and I’ll be in touch about the event,” I reply, turning away from him and nodding to Ronald to lead the way. He casts a wary glance over my shoulder before he turns away with a determined expression, leading Jenna and I toward the exit.

“He was so hot,” Jenna comments, fanning herself dramatically. “Why didn’t you give him your number?”

Shaking my head, I suck in a breath. “The answer to that question is complicated.”

“Isn’t it always?”

We reach the lobby and Ronald turns to us with a smile. “This is where I bid you adieu, ladies.”

“Thank you for all your help today, Ronald.”

“Of course, Miss Dawson. I notified the valets we were coming so your cars should be out front.” We shake hands with the promise to be in touch next week to go over details before Jenna and I walk out into the bright afternoon sunlight where our cars are waiting just as Ronald said. I check my phone and let out a sigh of relief when I see the time.

3:45 p.m.

Brooklyn’s only been in daycare for about forty-five minutes and it eases my guilt over her being there at all. If I had it my way, she wouldn’t ever leave my side no matter how unhealthy it is.

“Bye, Quinn,” Jenna calls as she opens her car door and I wave as I open the door to the Maxima and climb inside. The Night The Lights Went Out in Georgia by Reba McEntire is playing as I start the car and I start singing along as I pull away from the hotel and turn toward Brooklyn’s daycare, eager to see my baby girl again.