I’m surprised at the note of vulnerability in her voice. But truth be told, Mr. Simons’s first wife was an exceptional party planner. She had connections though, ones I’m sure Bethaney doesn’t. His first wife was big on charities, so the party favors were usually for a specific cause. During Labor Day, she gave everyone a specific animal that she’d adopted for them from the rain forest. And you get monthly updates on said animal. I believe her long-term goal was for us to continue to give money to the charity and it worked for me. A specific amount of money is taken out every month to care for my orangutan, Bongo.

“Everyone does like you. Right, Andrew?” He looks at me with an expression that clearly says I’d better agree.

“Of course. Everyone here thinks highly of you, Bethaney.”

Her pout makes a reappearance. “You guys are just saying that. I want to prove that I belong. Plus, Christmas is my all-time favorite holiday. I can’t screw this up.”

Christ, what’s with the Christmas cheerleaders I find myself surrounded by lately? What is it about the holiday that these people love? Then a thought occurs to me, but I don’t want to mention Kenzie’s name to Bethaney because that’s inviting Kenzie into my world.

“You know what, sweetie, Tom Harding probably knows someone. He always seems to have a guy or a woman who can help out.”

Tom Harding? I’ve never wanted to throat punch a guy more.

“Really?” Bethaney stands. “Maybe I should go ask him?”

“You do that, sweetie.” He pats her on the ass. “Hell of a case he won for the firm yesterday, right, Andrew?”

If I could forcefully throw up, I would right now.

“I know someone!” I actually raise my hand as the words rush out of me so fast, I’m surprised Bethaney understood me and stops. I’m not an impulsive person. I always think before I speak. It’s the nature of being a lawyer.

“You do? Who is it?” Bethaney turns to Mr. Simons.

“My friend’s sister is an event planner.”

“What’s her name?”

“MacKenzie Montgomery.” I don’t actually know if she goes by her full name in business or if she has a business name. We never got that far last night.

Bethaney tilts her head and purses her lips. “I’ve never heard of her.” She steps closer to the door and panic arises inside me.

“She’s very up and coming.” Bethaney’s expression doesn’t change, so I add, “And she loves Christmas. Just last night, she was dressed like an elf when we had dinner. Christmas cheer is the best, am I right?” I don’t know why I added that last part.

“You love Christmas?” Her expression says she pegged me for a Scrooge.