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“That will be easy. He thinks we should just be friends. I’ve officially been friend-zoned by my husband.”
“Good.” Jess smiles. “One less thing to worry about.”
It’s confusing because of the morning in Vegas. His head between my thighs was not exactly a friend move. But he said he wanted to make me feel better. So, now I’m thinking it was a pity orgasm? And he thought he’d never see me again. The words every girl wants to hear.
Had I been imagining the chemistry between us? Was it the alcohol and my need to escape from reality for a night? To block out the beaming smiles of Alec and Brecken’s engagement post?
It still feels like there is something between us, like last night when he kissed me at the cake cutting. But maybe there’s not. He is a performer. I saw how different he was up on that stage than the guy I had enjoyed a quiet moment with on the roof.
“And you know what they say…the best fake relationships are built on friendship.”
“I don’t think that’s how the saying goes.”
I have to forget about Griffin’s rejection and focus on how we can get to know each other as quickly as possible. We need memories, inside jokes, all the things a real couple would have.
“Well, it applies here.” She gives me a small smile. “It’s only three weeks. You can do it.”
“Thanks.” I groan.
“Griffin’s suit fitting is at three. You’ve got a custom consult with a new client at one. Looking at the schedule, you can get out of here by two-thirty to meet him there. Oh, and I emailed you a list of personality tests and questionnaires for you both to fill out. They’ll be a quick way to get to know each other. There’s also a list of date ideas for new couples I thought would be helpful.”
“Perfect.” I scroll through her email, glancing at the questions. Occupation is the second question. It reminds me of my startled discovery that Griffin is a lawyer. Or soon to be. Information that I was unaware of until my mom and dad sneak attacked us with their breakfast in bed ritual this morning. Which also reminds me that I need to find a new place to live. After the breakup with Alec, I focused on work, getting ready for the fashion show in Vegas, and now that it’s over, I need to move on with my post-breakup life and move out of my parents’ place. “Can you get in touch with Paulina about speeding up my condo search?”
“Your parents’ Park Avenue penthouse getting a little cramped?”
“Yeah, my fake marriage is taking up too much space.”
“I’ll have her send you some options by the end of the day.”
“Thanks.”
After Jess leaves, I spend a few minutes filling out the questionnaire.
I enter the front display room and find Chloe sitting in the waiting area. She’s dressed adorably in a high-waisted red skirt and cream short-sleeve sweater with cherries on it.
Before I can say anything, she rushes toward me, screaming with excitement. “Ahh! You’re married!”
I laugh as she wraps her arms around me and squeezes me tightly.
“I need all the details.” She throws her hands up in the air. “I didn’t even know you were seeing anyone.”
“It’s been a whirlwind.”
“I’m sad that we couldn’t share in the moment with you two, but respect that you and Griffin wanted something different for your wedding.” She rolls her eyes playfully. “Barrett would invite the entire world to our wedding if he could, just to put everyone on notice that I’m his.”
With everything happening so quickly, this is the first time I’m realizing that me and Griffin getting married might feel like we’re trying to steal the spotlight from Chloe and Barrett’s upcoming nuptials.
“Oh God, I haven’t even stopped to think how this is making you feel with your wedding in two weeks. I’m so sorry. I hope you don’t think that I was trying to take attention away from you and Barrett.” I swallow thickly. “That was never my intention.”Because I never intended to get married at all.
“Of course not. I don’t care about that. You’re in love and happy.” Chloe beams. “That’s what I care about.”
“Right.” I nod. “Okay, let’s get you into this dress.”
I motion her toward the fitting room, deciding it’s best if we talk while I work.
“It’s your final fitting. I’m excited for you to see your dress on.” I attempt to drum up enthusiasm for why Chloe is really here, but she doesn’t take the bait.
From behind the closed curtain, she continues the conversation.
