Mum sat back with a sigh. “I never said Marcus wasn’t lovely. I know he is because of the time you came to stay. He ate your dad’s square sausage for breakfast and never once asked what the hell he was eating. That’s love, right there.”

Abby laughed. That was Marcus all over, fitting into his surroundings.

“I just want to make a good impression on Jordan, that’s all.”

Delta raised an eyebrow in her direction. “Jesus, Abby. It sounds like you’re marrying Jordan, not Marcus. She’s staff, as I believe you pointed out to me when we met last.”

Abby’s cheeks burned. She hated that term, it was one Marjorie used. But yes, she did recall saying it. Maybe the Montgomerys had rubbed off on her too much already.

“I just want it all to go well.” Abby checked her watch. “She’s due any moment. So just remember, play nicely.” She pointed at Delta. “No baring your teeth, okay?”

Delta nodded, a butter-wouldn’t-melt smile gracing her lips. “You’re the bride, and we’re both here to make your life easier. Yar-di-yar-di-yar. I get it. Jordan is my new best friend, okay?”

Abby gave her a nod. “Perfect.”

Jordan swept in ten minutes later, and Abby gulped. She looked stunning. She was wearing a blue jump suit and tan heels, her slim waist accentuated with a matching tan belt. When she saw Abby, she gave her a wide grin and waved. Marcus had told Abby that Jordan turned up to see his mother in a stunning gold dress. Jordan was a fashion chameleon, fitting into whatever the occasion.

Jordan pulled out the spare chair from the table, then held out a hand in greeting to Mum. “You must be Gloria.” Jordan pumped her mum’s hand like she was the most important person in the world. “And you must be Delta.” More hand-shaking, as Delta nodded.

Jordan sat, smoothing her clothes as she spoke. “I’ve heard so much about both of you. I’m Jordan, and I’m looking forward to getting to know you better over the next few weeks in the run-up to Abby’s big day.”

“We’ve heard a lot about you, too.” Gloria paused, tilting her head to the side. “But Abby never told us you were so stunning. You could be a model!”

Abby closed her eyes. Oh god, Mum was babbling like she was starstruck. Perhaps this was what had happened to Marjorie. Maybe Jordan really did have some kind of magic juice when it came to mothers.