Alexa wasn’t going to throw Penny under the bus. Plus, it was important for her to appear one step ahead, not one step behind, on all wedding plans. She’d built her entire professional life on being one step ahead. She didn’t trust Abigail yet so she gave a nonanswer. “Penny handed me quite a list yesterday. I haven’t been through all the line items, but we welcome your assistance. Bring your bathing suits!” The two mothers exchanged a quick hug. “What a lovely party. Such a beautiful home you have. A very special place. And George, you gave a wonderful toast. You did Aristotle and our family proud.”

George puffed up a bit, and Alexa felt a genuine connection for the first time to this man.

Simon added his thanks and said, “I’ll see you both again in Montecito in December!”

As Alexa’s car pulled away from the curb, she turned to look back at the house and there was Timmo Lynch on the front porch, giving her a tip of his head. As she returned the gesture, a tiny jolt shot through her. Maybe this wedding would have its perks after all.

Simon noticed her spark. “You and the mayor? Quite the pair.”

Alexa pulled two Italian subs out of her handbag and offered one to Simon. “Sub?”

“Oh, I couldn’t. So many hot nuts, I can barely eat another bite,” he joked, taking the sandwich he was offered, along with the extra napkin. “And people say the British have bad food.”

“I think we better pre-eat before the rehearsal dinner. I’m afraid it will just be cheese and crackers and a few carrot sticks,” Alexa agreed, and now they both were laughing. When they settled, she asked, “What do you think of them, Simon? They’ll be such a big part of Penny’s life.”

“That George is a very solid guy, but I get the sense he lives in a world that’s disappearing. A world where bridge and good manners and references to Aristotle have tremendous value. But Chase doesn’t live in that world and that’s what counts. He’s of this time and place. As is his boss. But I liked all of them for different reasons. Penny will be fine, Lex,” he said. “And say what you will about the mother, she’s an amazing gardener. Did you see those roses? And those hydrangeas? Impressive. A person who can cultivate a garden like that one has something to offer. Be patient.”

“Now who’s the man who lives in a world that is disappearing?” Alexa said, popping the last of the sub into her mouth.

From the Desktop of Dearly Beloveds and Betrotheds

Aunt B’s Engagement of the Month

Penelope Diamandis, Chase Blakeman Engaged to Marry