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Chapter One
Marcy
I hate weddings.
That’s the first thought I had when my brother told me he was getting married. I love Arthur and Kate, but the thought of helping to plan a wedding and being an active participant in the whole event leaves my skin crawling.
I tried it once, the whole marriage thing. It’s bogus. I’d rather use my toothbrush to clean the bathrooms in Grand Central than tie the knot again.
But this isn’t about what I want. This is about my brother finding the love of his life across time itself. I don’t know how much of Kate’s story I believe. I mean, it’s pretty hard to swallow the yarn she told me.
From the future? Yeah, sure. Whatever.
But she makes my brother happy, and she’s pretty awesome. So I’m not going to rain on their parade.
I slide a tip into the caterer’s hand. “Thanks.”
“Enjoy your party.” He nods and leaves with his crew in tow.
“Did you finish those favors yet?” I ask my assistant, Liana, while I inspect the cake.
“Yeah. When did Arthur say Kate would be back?”
“Rob should be bringing her any minute.” I glance at the clock. Five to five.
Arthur suggested I throw a small bachelorette party for Kate instead of a bridal shower. I had no idea what it was until he explained. I guess it’s a big deal in the future. I don’t know. But it gives me an excuse to kick back and relax. Work has been crazy lately, and I’m in desperate need of some downtime.
Besides, Kate doesn’t have a lot of friends. And that resonates deep. I remember a time when I had no one but Arthur looking out for me. Well, Rob was there too, in a way offering support, especially that night...
I shake my head at the direction of my thoughts. I will not think about that night or my brother’s best friend. Not now. Not ever.
We put the finishing touches on the decorations. The moment the door opens, Liana pops the champagne.
Kate jumps and laughs, her eyes wide as she enters Arthur’s penthouse. “Marcy.” She puts her hands on her hips. “Did your brother put you up to this?”
I wrap my arm around her waist and lead her into the living room I converted into our party oasis. “He may have mentioned it in passing.”
“Thank you.” Kate takes a champagne flute from Liana.
“You’ve given us a reason to celebrate.” I wink and take the offered glass from Donna. “I never thought I’d see Arthur delirious in love.”
“To love then.” Kate lifts her glass. The small group of women around us cheer in agreement and drink.
I can’t toast to that. I won’t. Love ruined me. My hand trembles as I bring the glass to my lips.
A shadow flickers by the door.
Rob stands in the entryway, leaning against the doorframe, his blue eyes narrowed on me. His dark blond hair is short enough to keep it out of his eyes but long enough to run fingers through it. From a distance, he’s the perfect image of a medical professional. But I’ve seen him up close and personal.
That man is a hazard to my health.
While Kate is distracted by the small buffet and animated conversation, I cross the room, bracing for an oncoming storm with Rob.
“Thanks for bringing Kate.” I gesture to the door. “You can go now.”
A lopsided smile transforms his face from serious to amused, and he presses his hand to his heart. “That eager to kick me out? I’m hurt.”
“You’re so dramatic. Don’t you have somewhere to be?”
