Page 88 of Strictly Business
MICHAELA
STRING BULB LIGHTS ILLUMINATE the front lawn of the Alderidge Estate — it looks more like a fairy tale castle you’d find in France than the Blue Ridge Mountains of North America. It’s one of the largest homes in the country built by the Alderidge family as a summer home over one hundred years ago. Underneath a large chandelier, several guests glide across the dance floor, others sit at tables and lounge areas scattered across the lawn. I sway to the beat of a slow tune with the groom. “So, what’s it like?”
“What?” Nick asks.
“Officially being a married man.”
“It wasn’t official before?” He laughs, but he’s not wrong. Their city hall wedding over two years ago wasn’t what anyone would have predicted, especially not from Nina, but I think it’s the best thing they ever did. “She’s my best friend,” his stare moves behind me to find his wife. “It couldn’t be any better than that.”
“I’m happy for you guys. I’m just glad I was able to witness it finally.”
“I couldn’t wait for her to plan it,” Nick shrugs. “I mean, look how long this one took.”
“I think we all forgive you after the weekend we’ve had.”
“Would you have expected any less?”
“Absolutely not,” I laugh, but it fades when I meet Finn’s stare from the edge of the dance floor. He stands with Josh and Dean half-listening to their conversation. Damn, he looks good.
“Why don’t you talk to him?” Nick asks looking to see what caught my attention.
“I’d rather shit bricks.”
“A little dramatic, but okay.” Nick spins me under his arm.
“There is nothing more to say.”
“I’d say there’s quite a bit. You guys seemed to get along pretty well, there was just some miscommunication.”
“Well, none of it matters anymore,” I scoff.
Nick shakes his head with a small chuckle, “Did you ever ask him why he was doing it?”
“One would assume you’re starting a business because you want to, not because you have to. Not because if you don’t, you’ll lose your inheritance and way of life.”
“I’m just saying, you and Finn—”
“Nick,” I stop him. “Not everyone can be you and Nin, okay? We can’t all have an epic love story.”
“Now you’re really being dramatic. Stop putting us up on some pedestal, Mic. You can’t always compare yourself to us, to Nina.”
I roll my eyes.
“I’m serious, Michaela. If you would just talk to him, I’m sure you could figure it out.”
“I don’t think it’s that easy. Besides, things have gotten more complicated the past few weeks.”
Is complicated the right word?
"What's that supposed to mean?" He asks, brows raised. My shrug isn't the answer he wants, but he doesn't have time to push because a manicured hand grips his arm.
“Mind if I cut in?” Nina asks with a knowing smile.
“I wasn’t finished,” Nick argues.
“Yes, you are. There will be no more interrogations tonight.”
“But—”