“You get to pick from a menu of scenarios popular in romantic comedies.” Julia scrolled down. “See?”

“There’s paintball!” Andie gasped.

“Uh-huh.” Julia pointed at the list. “I think I like karaoke serenade the best.”

“But how does this all work?” Kat asked.

“It’s a simulation … sort of.” Julia paused, thinking through her conversation with the resort owner. They’d talked on the phone yesterday, going over the logistics. Maybe it was because she was really enthusiastic about her new venture, but Mrs. Wackyspoon, or whatever her name was, came across as a bit … odd. The woman had babbled on in a bizarre accent Julia suspected was supposed to be British, proclaiming she was delighted to provide a complimentary stay in exchange for promotional coverage with a review of the resort on “Take Me!”

A good thing, too. The lack of expenses was one of the deciding factors in getting her project approved. “Guests are assigned a character, a role to play, they select their activities, and then the games begin.”

“Sounds fun.” Kat grinned. “Any chance you’re looking for some company on this adventure?”

“I was hoping you’d ask.” Julia returned the grin. “Here’s the best part. I managed to score a complimentary stay for all three of us.”

Andie raised her glass in salute. “Impressive.”

“When is this grand opening event happening?” Kat asked.

“Week after next.” Julia looked at her friends. “I know that’s not a lot of warning. Will that work for you?”

“A free stay in a hotel and a chance to spend a week living in a romantic comedy?” Andie whistled. “I’ll find a way to make it work. Most of my players will be busy with end-of-school-year stuff anyway.”

“It shouldn’t be a problem for me, either.” Kat fiddled with the end of her braid. “With Mother’s Day over and prom season wrapping up, things will be slowing down at the shop til wedding season gets rolling. I’m in.”

“So, we’re doing this?” Julia asked, excitement bubbling up again.

“Like we could ever say no.” Andie grinned.

“Now, show me that list of scenarios,” Kat demanded, rubbing her hands together. “Someone told me romantic comedies don’t happen in real life, and I’m ready to prove her wrong.”

CHAPTER 4

LUKE

Luke O’Neal stood on the balcony overlooking the lobby of the Notting Hill Resort, eyeing the trickle of guests entering the hotel. “We’re really doing this.”

“Yep.” Vijay, his best friend, bobbed his head in agreement. “We’re really doing this.”

“I can’t believe it’s finally starting!” Luke’s sister declared, her voice brimming with excitement.

“Calm down, Penelope. Things don’t kick off ’til tonight.” Luke glanced back at the activity below. He shook his head, smiling despite himself. His sister’s energy was infectious. “A year ago, if someone had told me this was what I’d be doing, I would have choked with laughter.”