AllFreeNovel
Share Us
I’m quiet. She’s right. I can’t let people like that continue to get to me. His opinion of our relationship doesn’t matter. It’s Beckett, Glinda, and Andie that matter.
“I understand what you’re saying. I think Beckett and I have moved past it. He’s taking me to Italy this week. He has business there and begged me to come along.”
“Well, you’re full steam ahead now.”
“I guess so. Do you think I should put on the brakes?”
“I think you’re old enough to know what and who you need. Your path is yours to create. There are no rules.”
I nod. “I want to go. I’m excited to both go to Italy and to spend that time with him.”
“Good. And the physical? You’re compatible?”
I let out a breath. “Best of my life.”
She smiles. “I’m happy for you. This was a long timecoming. I want you to have a wonderful time on your trip. Let him treat you well. You’re deserving.”
I nod.
“Do you hear me, Amanda? You’re deserving.”
“I’m trying.”
“I know.”
CHAPTER NINETEEN
AMANDA
Icalled Melissa and she was thrilled to help me find something special to wear for our one fancy evening. She really does have impeccable taste. She’s revamped Jade’s wardrobe over the past five years into something truly spectacular. It’s like seeing the pages of Vogue magazine come to life.
We head into the boutique she recommended. As we begin looking through dresses, she asks, “I love that you asked me to help you. Why didn’t you ask Jade though? She has great taste.”
“She has work today, and I’m not ready for her to know certain details about this man yet. You know how she is. She’ll push and push.”
Melissa lets out a laugh. “That’s true. You don’t have to tell me about him, but can you tell me about the party you’re going to?”
“Can you keep a secret?”
“Of course.”
“He’s taking me to Italy.”
Her eyes light up. “Oh, I love it there. It’s so romantic. Where are you going?”
“He said Rome for a night. He has a work obligation there. That’s where we have a fancy event. Then we’re going to the Amalfi Coast for a few days before coming home. He said I can be casual there.”
She nods. “Okay, that helps, but know that Italy casual and real-world casual are slightly different. They’re pretty fancy over there.”
“Oh. I didn’t know that. We’re staying on a boat, so maybe it won’t be too bad.”
“We’ll find stuff. Don’t worry.” The front door of the boutique chimes and Melissa looks up and smiles. “Glinda Windsor? I haven’t seen you in years. How is it that you don’t age like the rest of us?”
I turn and see Glinda smile as she walks over and kisses Melissa’s cheek. “You look well, Melissa. Happiness suits you.”
“It does.” Melissa points at me. “Glinda, this is my friend, Amanda Tremaine.”
Glinda throws her arm around me. “I know Amanda. I’m here for her, to help her pick out a dress for the romantic getaway to Italy.”
