“Don’t worry, sweetie, I picked up some gorgeous black and purple pre-made shirts at Barney’s last weekend. I have one for you right here in my bag. Let’s go to the bathroom and take that one off…”

Rosalee’s cheeks turned apple-red.

“Come on,” I insisted. Locking arms, I steered her in the direction of the airport bathrooms.

Over my shoulder, I flipped a look at Bri beaming her with my best “fuck you, bitch” smile.

They could try all they want to ruin my best friend’s party and her impending marriage, but I won’t let them. Nobody was hurting Rosalee this weekend, unless over my dead body…

“Thank you,” Rosalee muttered, once we were safely tucked in the stall. She lifted the too-tight shirt over her head as I unfolded the new one and handed it to her. She seemed tense and distracted, her shoulders and jaw tight. Her eyes were far away and sleepy. Was it just the drama and anxiety of dealing with her in-laws or was it something more? There was a stiffness to her that I hadn’t seen in a long time, like she was going through the motions but not really present.

“Are you okay? I’m sorry about the shirt. I should have insisted on doing that myself too…”

“I’m fine.” Rosalee slid the new purple shirt over her head and adjusted her stubby black ponytail.

I shoved the other shirt in the tampon can, and watched my best friend’s reflection in the bathroom mirror. She lifted her lips, trying to force a smile. Watching her made me feel a sudden rush of sadness.

‘Lucky in love’, the shirt read, the ‘o’ fashioned into a glittery engagement ring. But was she truly lucky, I couldn’t help wondering? Yes, she’s marrying the guy she’s coveted since grade school, but is it worth it if she has to deal with those terrible in-laws?

“You sure you’re okay? Was everything fine with Asher when you left?” I reached up and adjusted her ponytail for her in the mirror. One thing I loved about Rosalee—she was never fake, and she liked to dress for comfort. Sure, she could dress up more from time to time and she’d put on a few extra pounds since getting engaged, but she would always be a hottie in my book. Screw those mean bitches for trying to ruin her day from the get-go!

“Yeah. Everything’s fine. But where is Tinsley? I figured y’all would show up together since you planned the party together…” Rosalee said, shifting out of my grasp.

I took a deep breath through my mouth and blew it out like a bull through my nose. I’d been dreading this moment. “Yeah, about that… Tinsley isn’t coming. I’m sorry.”

Chapter Four

Tinsley

The cousin