Page 32 of Rise After Fall

“He could do worse—that’s for sure,” Sara-Beth states.

She has his mother’s approval.

“Although, I see Morris with a more sophisticated woman. One who knows who she is and what she wants and will give him a run for his money. An equal,” she adds.

“You mean, a challenge,” Leona corrects.

“That too.”

The two women give each other a conspiratorial look.

“Lord help him,” Maxi mumbles.

We finish our meals, and I escort them back down to the lobby.

Sara-Beth and Taeli hand the valets their tickets.

“You all enjoy the rest of your evening. I need to get back to the slopes,” I tell them.

“Thank you for all your help today, Zoey. I had the most fun,” Sara-Beth says as she gives me a warm hug.

“Yes, I can’t wait to come back,” Leona agrees as she also embraces me.

“Next time, you guys are going to be brave enough to tackle the lift, right?” I ask.

“Absolutely,” they agree.

“You know, we’re having a little get-together at the brewery on Friday night. We’re calling it one of Ansley’s wedding planning sessions, but it’s actually just an excuse for a girls’ night out. You wouldn’t want to join us, would you?” Erin asks.

I’m taken aback by the invitation.

“I don’t have a car here,” I say.

“Isley just lives over that ridge. She can pick you up,” Sara-Beth offers as she gestures to the right of the hotel.

“I don’t want to put her out.”

“Oh, please. She passes right by here,” Erin says.

“You should ask her—” I start.

“She’ll say yes. I’ll text her now. Be ready by eight,” Erin says.

Maxi comes up behind me. “You might as well surrender now. She’s already decided you’re in the circle.”

“What?” I ask, confused.

“See you on Friday,” she says.

“Okay.”

The valets arrive with their vehicles, and they all pile in.

I wave as they drive out of sight.

That was an interesting afternoon.

Morris