CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT

BROOKE

 

Brooke looked over the checklist Charlotte had drawn up for wedding planning. As agreed earlier, Rosalie at Tropi-Flowers was giving them a discount in return for publicity. The two brides were as different in their choices as any two could be. The theme of one was bright tropical colors like the flowers in the previous wedding. The other had a color theme of pale pink and white. The first was on the beach, the other in the gazebo.

Slowly they went through each sheet, working out staff requirements, food and music choices, and any other details the weddings required.

“It’s helpful that the number of people attending each one is small,” said Livy. “It gives us time to decide how we want to proceed if Gran and John approve of what we’re doing.”

“And a better idea if dinners at the Inn are doable,” said Charlotte. “A lot of that depends on you and what you decide for the future.”

Livy nodded solemnly, pricking interest in Brooke. She seemed unnaturally quiet at times.

After they reviewed all the details and were satisfied that the plans would easily move forward, Charlotte said, “Guess what! Shane and I have put in an offer on a house. I’m not sure we’ll get it, but I’m hoping we will.”

“Tell us about it,” said Brooke. “It’s in Miami, right?”

“In Coconut Grove on Bayshore Drive. It’s beautiful and not too big. Three bedrooms, a study, two and a half baths.”

“Do you have photos?” Brooke asked.

Charlotte lifted her phone and showed them the listing. Brooke was shocked at how much the house cost, but then she was used to real estate prices in Ellenton. If the time came for her and Dylan to find living quarters in Florida, what would they be able to afford? She scolded herself for thinking too far ahead.

After the meeting broke up, Brooke decided to go visit with Mimi. She wanted to make sure Mimi was aware of her feelings for Dylan. She didn’t want to hurt Adam and still loved Skye, but being with Dylan, discovering a new side to herself was a gift she couldn’t ignore.

When Brooke knocked on the door, Mimi answered it and held a finger to her lips. “Skye fell asleep in the family room on the couch and I’m not moving her. But come in, Brooke. I’m glad you’re here.”

Brooke followed Mimi into the kitchen and out to the back lanai.

“Care for anything to drink?” Mimi asked.

Brooke shook her head, suddenly nervous. “No thanks. I want to talk to you about Dylan.”

Mimi indicated a chair for Brooke and took a seat in one facing her. A short woman who was a fabulous cook, Mimi showed the result of her talent in her bulk. Her face showed her usual warmth as she said, “Brooke, I need to apologize. I’ve been pushing Adam and you together when I should’ve realized how right Dylan is for you. He came to me this morning to tell me how he feels about you.”

“He did?” Brooke was surprised but pleased.

“Yes. He told Adam, too, that you and he are dating exclusively. Adam understood.”

“Oh, I’m glad. I didn’t want any hard feelings,” Brooke said, relieved. “Adam’s a great guy, and you know how I feel about Skye, but it wasn’t going to work.”

“I’m pleased for you. Apparently, Dylan told his mother, and KK is thrilled. Dylan is a very special man as are you a special young woman. I’m very happy with the way things are turning out.” Mimi stood and reached down and hugged Brooke to her. “Love you.”

“I wonder what Gran would think of all she’s missed here at the cove,” said Brooke.

Mimi laughed. “Oh, we all keep her up-to-date. I’m sure she’s going to be very happy with the latest news.”