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The social climber stigma made Allison feel uncomfortable and didn’t accurately portray her interest in having a nice night out and maybe even meeting some new people. That’s all it was. “It really wasn’t a big deal. Drinks with some of Megan’s friends and colleagues.”

“It’s justMegannow? She’s taken you under her wing. Making sure you know all the proper people. Smart of her because you’ll be forever grateful.”

Allison frowned that she’d leapt to the same conclusion Brent had.“I don’t think it’s like that. She did a presentation for my class, and the invitation to the gathering came naturally.”

“Mm-hmm.” She could hear the wheels turning in her sister’s head. “Regardless, I’d lean in to it. She’s sure to have a huge number of powerful connections.”

“I’m confident she does, but what would I need those for exactly? I’m an elementary school teacher.”

Her sister was quick to answer. “You never know. You’re going to be a Carmichael, Ally. It’s like you really don’t get it. You’re going to have to start thinking like one.”

“I’m never going to be a socialite, Betsy. That’s just not in my makeup.”

There was a loud sigh. “I worry for you, Allison. I really do. I don’t think you have a clue what’s ahead of you.”

Allison frowned. “I will be supportive of Brent and all he does. I will attend all the events I already attend with him. We’ll spend the holidays with our families and go to our separate jobs every day. Hell, maybe one day we’ll get a dog. Or a child. What’s more to expect?”

Betsy seemed to redirect. “All I’m saying is that Megan Kinkaid could be a very helpful friend. Hold on to her.”

Allison planned to do that, but not for the reasons Betsy suggested. “She’s my wedding planner, so I don’t think she’s going anywhere.” She made an excuse to get off the call because she didn’t have the coping ability for the pressures that came with her sister. Alone now, she made a cup of tea and stared into its depths, letting the mug warm her hands, and knowing the Earth had shifted beneath her feet with these new realizations and not at all sure what to do about it.

* * *

Megan arrived at the Great Waters Country Club twenty minutes before her scheduled meeting and tour with Allison. She preferred to arrive before her clients to get her bearings and to make sure they were on schedule to see the venue. After checking inside with her contact, Lisa, Megan walked along the gorgeous duck pond, leaning over the quaint wooden railing and watching the little guys pump their legs as they swam. She hadn’t seen Allison in close to two weeks, and the anticipation had her preoccupied most of the morning, no matter howoften she shoved it to the side. Just another bride. She saw throngs of them daily. If only.

She turned at the sound of a car door closing in the parking lot and caught a glimpse of blond hair headed her way. She straightened and smiled, ignoring the way her stomach danced and her skin felt extra sensitive as Allison approached. She’d be coming from school, but she didn’t look the least bit tired. Instead, she was Allison, fresh-faced and seemingly full of energy.

“You got me ducks and everything?” she exclaimed as she grew closer. Her blue eyes sparkled like always.

“I heard you had a soft spot.” Megan made a sweeping gesture to the dock. “Imagine the gorgeous photos here. Serene, romantic. It’s possible one of these ducklings might even play along.”

“Wear a tux,” Allison supplied.

Megan closed one eye. “Sure. I suppose, if you were extra persuasive and tossed them some currency.”

They took a moment and grinned at each other. Megan swore the air around her changed the moment Allison arrived, and she bathed in the crackle of energy now present and bouncing between them. Almost like someone had just hit the play button on her paused life. “Shall we go check out the space?”

“Yes. Any of it outdoors?” Allison asked.

“Well, they offer outdoor ceremony options, but are you trying to roast your guests? We’re talking about a summer wedding in Texas. You could pull that off in early spring at the latest.”

“Yeah, good point. I’ve always romanticized an outdoor wedding.”

“I can make anything you can afford happen, but I’ve found the weather refuses to be bought. I’ve tried.”

“You have a way of saying no to things with humor.”

“Yeah?” Megan looked over at her. “I guess I try to soften it.”

“It’s a great tactic. I almost don’t realize I’m being deprived because I’m grinning at you. That’s a pretty color on you, by the way. Makes you glow.”

Megan glanced down at the fuchsia sweater she wore, warmth springing to her cheeks. “Thank you.”

“Welcome.” Ally clapped once. “Lead the way. I’m bursting with excitement.”

They met up with Lisa, who took them on a tour of all the club’sofferings. The Carmichaels were members, of course, so they were given the VIP treatment, though they declined the champagne.

“It’s gorgeous,” Allison said, staring into the sprawling ballroom, currently empty but impressive still. Huge picture windows looked down over the water and golf course beyond.