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“Yeah, it sure feels like a palace.”
“Where’s your hot fiancé?” I asked the minute she closed the bedroom door.
Belle piped up. “Christine said he’s not allowed to stay in the big house now.”
“Oh, what? Is he in trouble?”
Esme laughed. “No, of course not. Wolfe’s mom is getting into all the wedding superstitions, big time. So he’s not allowed to stay in the same house as me, even see me until after we’ve tied the knot.”
“Crazy.” I flopped down on the bed, while Esme set up a craft table for Belle.
“Yeah, it is a bit.”
“Do you mind?”
“Not really. I actually like it that we’re all bunking in here tonight.”
“Even Florian?”
“Yep. I asked if he’d prefer to stay with us, or Wolfe and his brothers, and he chose us.”
“Super cute.”
“That’s what I said.”
“Miriam’s so bummed she can’t make it.”
“Yeah, me too. Can’t help it that Eliza’s sister is getting married the same weekend. I wish she could be here, though.”
“Same. So how’s it all going with Wolfe’s parents now that the wedding is so close?”
“Great, actually. Apparently, Christine is quite impressed by my flair for decorating. And she loves the color scheme we’ve chosen. It’s almost like she likes me.”
“Why is that so hard to believe? You’re adorable.”
Esme chuckled. “Thanks.”
I rested my head on my hand, ready to dig into everything that had been happening with Esme, but she stopped me with one of those searching looks. Why did people always do that and why didn’t I think to put more makeup on?
“You’re looking a bit like shit.”
I knew it was coming, but it still had me panicking a little, since I knew she’d be harder to push away than Grayson. “Thanks.”
“Seriously, Stef, if you need?—”
“I don’t need anything. Don’t you worry about me, my little lemon drop. Yeah, I’m a bit tired, but after you’ve jetted off on your amazing honeymoon, I’m heading back to Esperance to sleep for a week.”
“Okay, if you’re sure.”
“Of course I’m sure. What time does the rehearsal dinner start?”
“Six o’clock.”
I rolled onto my back, squirming so I was comfortable. “And we don’t have to do anything before then?”
“No. We can just chill in here till it's time to get ready.”
“Great.” My eyelids felt heavy. Too heavy to hold open for a second longer.