George started to step forward and tell his son the plan, even though he had the barest connection to Operation Butterfly. But the mayor opened his glorious mouth first. “What we have here is a group of concerned citizens. And we’re concerned that in the aftermath of breaking off your engagement, you’ve broken your own heart. And Penny’s heart. And this team of people is going to help you put those hearts back together again.”

Abigail took over from the mayor, explaining the timeline of the evening with just the right level of detail. She explained that Penny was in the museum, that everyone present was rooting for them, and that the sushi was from the place they went on their first date. She finished with emotion in her voice. “We all believe you and Penny should give this relationship one more chance. Don’t let planning a wedding get in the way of planning your life. The wedding, your wedding, won’t be the most important day of your life by a long shot. There will be so many other days that will define your union that won’t involve caterers and bouquets. But a wedding will be the start of something new, and we are all here for you.”

Chase looked at his mother with amazement and then hugged her deeply. The same for Sarah, followed by quick handshakes with his father, his friend, and his boss. “I’m all in. Let’s do this.”

“No cheering,” Sarah stage-whispered. “Penny’s upstairs!”

The mayor took the warning to heart and said quietly, “Now, does someone have a drink for the young lad?”

Lloyd, who had put together a bar cart for the evening, rolled it toward his friend and said, “What can I make you?”

*  *  *

Just as the mayor, Abigail, and Sarah triple-teamed the explanation, the text came that the Merry Widows were done with their tour of the second floor and headed down to the first floor and garden.

“It’s go time!” Sarah announced with great energy but low volume, directing the mayor, her parents, and the Daughters of the American Revolution design team to exit the building through the back door. “It will be more romantic if Chase is alone in the garden with the lanterns and the music and the dancers. He doesn’t need to look like he’s at a cocktail party, standing around here with his boss and parents. Off you go! We’ll see you at the restaurant afterward,” Sarah said, alluding to the meetup spot arranged by Alexa.

But Abigail turned to Chase, getting in a hug and a few words of encouragement. “The right partner in life is a tremendous gift. Especially where you’re headed. Don’t let Penny slip through your hands.”

“What made you change your mind? I thought Penny wasn’t our kind?” Chase asked in the least judgmental tone he could muster.