Page 67 of To Steal a Heart
“Thank you,” Arden said graciously. She looked from Astor to Katia. “Are y’all planning on attending the gala this evening?”
“We wouldn’t miss it.” A refined smile graced her lips. “I bought a pink gown for the occasion.”
Going off of Katia’s flawless appearance, Arden was sure the gown would be magnificent. She should definitely pattern a character after Katia. She could be a wealthy heiress who was part American and part Brazilian. No, too close to the truth. She’d have to let the idea percolate in her brain for a while before deciding on anything.
“I bought a pink tux,” Astor chimed in. A wicked twinkle lit his eyes. “It’s not every day that a man gets to wear a pink tux.”
Katia’s eyes rounded. “Dad, I believe only the women are wearing pink.” She looked to Arden for affirmation.
Eek. How could she navigate this to pacify them both? “Most of the men will wear black,” Arden said diplomatically. She threw Astor a conspiratorial grin. “Although with your coloring, I’m sure you’ll look great in pink.”
Katia chuckled. “Don’t encourage him.” She slipped her arm through Astor’s. “Let’s go up to our rooms. I’d like to get in a nap before the gala.”
They said a few parting words before strolling away. Arden breathed a sigh of relief. She was so glad the reading had gone well and that Astor and Katia were pleased. That’s what mattered most. She took a quick survey of the room. No sign of Crew … err, Garrett. She needed to cement his real name into her brain once and for all. When a curious disappointment settled over her, she realized with a jolt just how pathetic she was. She was hoping that he would come. Gah! She still had it bad for Garrett. Hopefully, with time, the hurt would fade.
“That was fabulous,” Olivia chimed as she stepped up and gave Arden a tight hug.
“Thanks.”
Olivia grinned from ear to ear. “You’re a natural.”
“I don’t know about that.”
“No need to pretend to be humble. I know you.” Olivia looked her over with keen eyes. “How ya doin’?”
“Great,” Arden lied, flashing a cheerful smile.
Olivia raised an eyebrow. “That good, huh?”
Arden blinked to keep back the wall of tears pressing behind her eyes. “I’m surviving.” Geez. She thought she had the crying thing under control, but ever since she’d returned to Honeysuckle Island, her emotions were going whacky. Or rather, she’d bottled up her emotions for the past several months. Now they were fizzing to the top, threatening to pop the cork whether she liked it or not.
Olivia nodded in understanding as she touched Arden’s arm. “You’ve been through the wringer. I’m glad that you’re home so we can spend some time together.”
“Me too,” Arden sighed. “Are you coming to the gala tonight?” she asked even though she already knew the answer. Olivia wasn’t keen on large social gatherings.
“No, Flynn and I are gonna stay home with Ryan.”
A soft smile draped Arden’s lips. “How’s the little stinker doing? I can’t wait to get my hands on him.” Ryan was a cutie. Olivia was always sharing videos of his antics.
“Great,” Olivia beamed.
“How’s Officer Wet Behind the Ears?” Arden couldn’t resist getting in a jab.
“Flynn’s great. Busy. He’s pulling double duty due to the diamond exhibit.”
Arden wrinkled her nose. “Sorry about that.” Olivia knew the full story about Beatriz Bergman being a big fan and how Astor and Katia had come here mostly to hear Arden read her chapter. Also, since the Finkle Diamond was a gift to Beatriz, they wanted to display it at the hotel.
“No worries. It’s a good thing. It brought you here. And it’s good publicity for the hotel.” Her eyes sparkled. “Not to mention the gallery.”
“Ah, now I see the real reason why you’re okay with Flynn working extra hours.”
Her face lit up as her words came faster. “The foot traffic has tripled the past few days. Sales are up. Everyone’s happy.”
“I’m so glad.” Investing in Olivia’s gallery was the best thing Arden ever did. It was great to see her bestie so happy and content, not to mention sumo successful. Olivia was on her way to becoming a famous artist.
Mom and Talon stepped up. Grandmother plodded behind them using her cane. It hurt to see her body twist with every labored step. From a spectator’s perspective, it might appear that Mom and Talon were unfeeling to leave Grandmother trudging behind. However, everyone in the family knew that anyone who tried to help Grandmother walk would get their head bitten off. It was better to just let her be.
“You did a wonderful job, honey.” Mom embraced Arden in a hug. The faint scent of Mom’s perfume tingled her senses.