Bethaney raises her chin and shrugs. “I suppose, but the guy there seems really intent on sticking with their standard fare and I want this party to be anything but standard.”

We go on to discuss the budget—bigger than I expected, and the number of guests—also bigger than I expected, then we get to the part where Bethaney explains her vision for the party to me. I get a really good idea why the last event planner quit. For a moment, I wonder if she’s related to my unicorn mom.

I keep my face neutral, nodding at all the appropriate times. I somehow stop myself from laughing when she tries to pull Andrew into the conversation by getting his take on what’s the better option, a Christmas carol sing-off or a dance-off.

“Yes, Andrew, I’m dying to get your opinion?” I lean forward with my arms crossed on the table. He’s put me in an impossible situation with this opportunity, so anytime I can make him squirm, I intend on taking full advantage.

“Both sound like great ideas, Bethaney.” He smiles at her, and even though I’ve never seen Andrew’s full smile, I’d bet my small studio apartment this isn’t it.

“I know, right? Both are amazing.” She shakes her head and looks around the room as though she can’t believe how intelligent she is.

When we conclude the meeting, I stand from the table and reach out to shake Bethaney’s hand again. “Thanks again for seeing me today. I’ll go over my notes and figure out what it’s going to take to put this all together and whether or not I have room in my schedule.”

She accepts my hand instead of insisting on a hug, but she clasps my hand between both of hers. “Oh please, you’re my only hope. This is the first party I’m in charge of and I need to do a better job than”—she leans in closer—“the ex,” she whispers.

For the first time, I see insecurity in her eyes. “I won’t take more than a day or two to get back to you.”

I give her a reassuring smile, but there’s still worry in her eyes and it tugs on my sympathies. Her desperation feels all too similar to my own when it comes to my career.

“I’ll walk you out.” Andrew comes beside me and motions for me to leave the boardroom first.

I do so, and we walk side by side back to the reception area without saying a word. He presses the elevator button and I’m surprised when he steps inside with me.

“Oh, you’re joining?” I step aside so there’s more distance.