Page 81 of Love Me Like You Do

“I don’t think it’ll take all that long,” Glori said. “Let’s get to it.”

They discussed the pros and cons of her themed idea and the men’s line, and then drafted an email that Hailey would never have been able to do on her own.

She knew how to design and sew, but she didn’t know business. And that’s what it really came down to with these women. They were sharp, savvy entrepreneurs.

They intimidated the hell out of her.

After they wrapped up with her, they went around the table, and each woman had a chance to discuss her issues. Everyone was so engaged, so helpful, it made Hailey long to be part of something like this. They all seemed to genuinely like and respect each other.

As they packed up their briefcases and tote bags, getting ready to have the Christmas party, Hailey felt a surge of gratitude. “You guys, I can’t thank you enough for letting me come tonight. I love the way you all just jumped right in and supported me.”

“Of course,” Glori said. “That’s what we’re here for.”

“I guess I’m not used to that.”

“That’s the whole reason we formed,” Callie said. “We’re not interested in straightening each other’s crowns. We’re all about getting in the trenches with each other.”

“And that goes for helping with the girls, too,” the princess said. “So don’t be one of those women who’s afraid to ask for help. Once you officially join, you’ll have access to our group chat. Just jump right in. Between all of us, I guarantee someone will be able to help.”

“Thank you.” She could only focus on digging her keys out of her tote bag. She didn’t want them to see how overwhelmed she was.

As the others moved on, Phinny approached her. “You’re not staying for the party?”

“I should probably get home to Cole.”

“He can’t handle the girls?”

“No, actually. He’s great. It’s just…”

“We can be intimidating. Don’t let that—”

“You are. But in the best way. You’re all so confident and smart, and here I am with my three-year plan.” Her high emotions were responsible for the next words that came tumbling out of her mouth. “And I’ve never trusted women before, so this is all new to me.”

But Phinny didn’t look at her like she was pathetic. “You know, I had the same group of best friends all my life. But when my situation changed—oh, let’s just be honest here—when my dad cut me off, I lost them all. Now, believe me, I understood. It’s not fun to hang out with someone who can’t afford to fly to Ibiza on a whim. I couldn’t even afford a drink in a bar.”

“But they were your best friends?”

“Oh, yes. We did everything together. Until I could no longer afford it. After that, I had a hard time trusting people. When Glori brought me here, I felt like such an imposter. I’d never done a thing my entire life other than spend money and travel, and here I am trying to open a shop without a clue how to go about it. And these women are so accomplished. Imagine someone like me asking for help from a scientist who makes the most expensive perfume in the world.”

Hailey looked to see who she was talking about. “Which one is she?”

“Rosie. The princess.”

The woman in pink cowboy boots, black leggings, and an oversized sweater, who looked like a supermodel? “She’s ascientist?”

“She is. And Knox isn’t just a designer. She makes couture wedding gowns. And I don’t use the word couture lightly. Meanwhile, my greatest claim to fame was putting together items for auctions. I’m not sayingyoufeel like an imposter, but I know what it’s like to feel out of your league with these women.”

“I want to be in their league.” So badly. “I guess I just need more confidence.”

“You look awfully confident to me. In any event, I hope you’ll stay for the party and get to know us as friends.” Phinny gave her a warm smile before taking off.

Unsure what to do, she decided to check in with Cole. If he needed her, she’d leave.

Hailey: How’s it going? You need me to come home?

Cole: Not at all. You getting good stuff out of the PRs?

Hailey: The best. Meeting’s over, and now they want to have some fun.