“It’s actually pretty important. It’s from someone named Caroline, who I’m gathering is your divorce lawyer. She says, ‘I know you’re out of town. Wanted to let you know that the judgment is in. As of today, you are officially divorced. Congrats.’”

Dani’s stomach dropped, and without thinking about poor Verene, she whipped around and made eye contact with Max, who was already looking at her.

It was funny that her eyes found him in a room full of people. There was Leo and Mr. Benz and the servers still buzzing about setting up the snacks. So many people between them. But he was the only one she wanted to see.

I swear to god, the moment the divorce is final, I’m going to do it with the first moderately attractive man I lay eyes on.

Her joking vow crash-landed in her mind. She wondered if he remembered it.

His eyes were burning as he stared at her. They contained blue fire, like in the center of a flame—the searing, powerful part.

He remembered.

She started to sweat, which was not good for her delicate crepe dress. She tried not to fidget, but she had butterflies all of a sudden. But they weren’t just in her stomach; they were all over. She kept looking at Max, though, and he kept looking at her.

“Is it bad luck that you’re getting divorced the same day I’m getting married?” Leo asked, breaking their spell. She could tell from Leo’s tone that he was joking and maybe also that he was trying to save her from herself.

Because if she held Max’s gaze any longer, she was going to make good on her pledge from so long ago.

“The cars will be arriving in forty-five minutes for the drive to the chapel.” Mr. Benz looked up from his phone. He made a slight gesture with his head, and the servers scurried out of the room. “I’ll leave you now, but please don’t hesitate to summon me if you need anything.”

“Oh, Mr. Benz,” Max said breezily, apparently having shaken off the intensity of a moment ago. It was disconcerting how easily he could make the shift given that Dani was still internally reeling. “Might I trouble you to check in on my brother?”

“Of course. Is everything all right?”

Max beamed at Mr. Benz. “Yes, but I believe there is one small matter with which you could assist.”

“Certainly. Unless I’m summoned, and again, please don’t hesitate to do so, I’ll be back before the cars are scheduled to arrive.” Mr. Benz left, Max smiling after him.

Verene patted Dani’s arm. “All done, dear.”