“Maybe I was the reason Sam finally took the step and asked for a divorce, but I wasn’t the reason they weren’t happy together. It’s got to be better to take that step than to keep being unhappy together, don’t you think?”

“Yes, I do.” Twelve years, Laurel thought. Yes, that did have to count for something. “Bibi, you have a good marriage, and a good relationship with your stepdaughter. You can afford to take the high road on this.”

“She screamed at me. She threw champagne in my face. She tore my dress.”

“I know. I know” Soothe, soothe, Laurel thought again. “Now, you can be the one to step back, to let it all go today, and focus on Sarah. To help make it the happiest day of her life.”

“Yeah. Yeah, you’re right.” Bibi knuckled her eyes like a child.

“I’m really sorry about what happened.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Laurel rose at the knock on the door.

“And in about fifteen minutes, you’re going to look perfect.”

“I—I never even asked your name.”

“It’s Laurel.”

“Laurel.” Bibi’s lips trembled up into a shaky smile. “Thanks for listening.”

“No problem. Now, let’s get you ready again.” She opened the door to the hairdresser.

THE BRIDE, BLISSFULLY UNAWARE OF THE BACKSTAGE DRAMA, STOOD with her father while her attendants walked toward the flower-drenched pergola. Some brides glowed, Laurel thought, and this one certainly did while the pretty, playful breeze fluttered the gauzy layers of her veil.

Mac changed angles, and Laurel imagined caught that shimmer of joy and anticipation as Sarah turned her head to grin at her father.

“Oh boy! Here we go.”

The music changed for the bride. Laurel saw Sam glance toward Parker, give the faintest of nods. Appreciation or acknowledgment—maybe both. Then he walked his radiant daughter toward the waiting groom.

“So far, so good,” Del murmured beside Laurel.

“It’s going to be fine. Probably better they had their battle before it started. Got it out of their system.”

“There won’t be any more trouble.” Parker’s tone was cold as January ice. “At least not from that source.”

“What did you say to the father?” Del wondered.

Parker’s smile would have frozen flame. “Let’s just say I’m confident the MOB and SMOB will behave in a civil manner, that Vows will be compensated for the additional hair and makeup fees, the gown repairs, and all damages.” She patted Del’s chest. “And we won’t need your services to collect.”

“I need to go finish the setup.” Laurel checked her watch. “Not that far off time, considering.”

“Do you want some help?” Del asked her.

“No. Go ... get a beer or whatever.”