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“Get the fuck out? Wow. That’s amazing.”
“Thanks. I still can’t believe it.”
“It’s nice that he’s got the balls to admit what everyone else already knows. Did you say it back?”
I nod, my cheeks heating.
“Good. Now I’ll just sit back and wait for the wedding.”
“Harper, it’s too early for that.”
She wags her finger in my face. “You just wait. And when it happens, I’m going to be your maid of honor.”
I shake my head with a smile. “You’re ridiculous, but of course, you’ll be my bridesmaid.”
“Good morning, girls.”
Harper and I turn to see a woman walk into the room. She’s an older version of my best friend, except with her vibrant red hair cut in a short bob. Her green eyes are alert and hold a spark of intelligence that perfectly explains the pharmaceutical name badge attached to her pocket. Her navy pantsuit with a crisp white blouse and a pair of heels remind me of something Hayden bought for me. Something high-quality and stylish.
“Hey, mom,” Harper says with a smile. “This is Calista. She’s my friend from the Sugar Cube, remember?”
The woman nods. “Of course I do. It’s nice to finally meet you. My daughter talks about you all the time. You can call me Melissa. Whenever someone calls me ‘ma’am,’ it makes me feel old.”
“It’s great to meet you as well,” I say, taking her hand and shaking it. Her grip is firm, but her expression is welcoming. “Harper is lucky to have you.”
Melissa’s expression turns solemn as she retracts her arm. “I know this is late, but I’m so sorry for your loss. Your father was a very influential man, and we’ll miss him.”
“Thank you,” I say, forcing the words past the lump in my throat. “This year has been very difficult, but things are turning around for me. I didn’t realize you knew my father.”
“Oh, yes. We worked with him on occasion.”
“I’m sorry, but can you remind me of the company you work for?”
“AstraRx.”
I school my features to hide my confusion. “Oh, right. I remember now.”
The lie flows easily from my lips. I’ve been hanging out with Hayden too much. Having worked with my father’s campaign manager, I should recognize the name. The fact that I don’t isn’t a big deal, but considering someone drugged me, that makes it one.
I glance at her badge again, noting the logo. Before I can say anything else, she turns away from me and takes Harper’s hand in hers. “How are you feeling, honey? Better today?”
My best friend shrugs. “I’m bored out of my mind.”
“You’ll be out of here tomorrow.”
I nod. “And you have me. I’ll stay here until visiting hours end and they kick me out.”
“That’ll be great.” Harper grins at me, her eyes crinkling at the corners. “It’ll be even better if you’ve brought that bodyguard with you.”
Melissa frowns. “Is that why there’s a hulking bald man just outside the door? I was about to notify the hospital staff.”
“My boyfriend is overprotective,” I mumble.
“And hot.” Harper grins at me. “If Mr. Bennett had a friend that was as good-looking as him, I’d be tempted to break the law.”
I roll my eyes with a laugh and Melissa shakes her head. “It’s hard to believe that I gave birth to you,” she says to Harper. “But I have no regrets.”
“Of course you don’t. How long are you staying today, mom?”
