One Tiny Lie – Jennifer Youngblood Page 0,43
Luna’s eyes. “Thanks,” she squeaked. “I hope they still feel the same way … after.”
“They will,” Rosalyn assured her with a smile. “I know it.”
11
Just breathe. Luna straightened her spine and rubbed her sweaty palms on her dress. She reached for her lipstick and applied it in smooth, swift strokes. She dabbed powder on her face before fluffing her hair.
“You look so beautiful,” Beverly squealed. “I knew that dress would look perfect on you.” A wicked laugh trailed from her throat. “Hudson’s gonna go out of his mind when he sees you.”
Luna chuckled as she turned around, a smile filling her face. “Thank you. You look beautiful too.” Beverly was wearing a simple black dress that showcased her curves. Her red hair was loosely curled and draped stylishly on her shoulders. She wore large, dangly diamond earrings and shiny black pumps. She stepped up and enfolded Luna in a tight hug. Her subtle perfume tingled Luna’s senses.
“Just think, one week from today, you and Hudson will announce your engagement.”
Butterflies flapped out a fast beat in Luna’s stomach. “Yes.” The birthday party was her moment of truth—the point where she would tell Hudson everything. Either he’d accept her for who she was, or he wouldn’t. No matter, Luna was determined to forge ahead. She needed to talk to Ava about the timing. It would be nice if she could tell Todd and Beverly the truth at the same time. Then again, she didn’t want to ruin Todd’s birthday or the party.
She pulled in a breath, telling herself to take one step at a time. No decisions had to be made tonight. She could simply enjoy spending time with Hudson. She was looking forward to dancing in his arms. Anticipation thrummed through her veins as she smiled.
“Have you decided which song you’re going to sing for the birthday party next week?” Beverly asked.
Crumb! The performance! She’d conveniently put that out of her mind. Luna had no idea how she was going to navigate herself out of this pickle. She wished she could switch places with Ava, just long enough for Ava to perform. “I’m still working on that,” she said evasively.
Beverly patted her shoulder. “Well, I know whatever you do will be great.” Beverly stepped back. A nervous energy was radiating off of her as she clasped and unclasped her hands.
“Is everything okay?”
“It’s great!” Beverly smiled brightly. “I just hope everything goes well tonight with the catering, the music—” she twirled a hand “—all of it. We need to show a good face to the community, quell the rumors of our financial duress.” Her perky mask slipped a fraction, and Luna could tell that Beverly was carrying a heavy load of worry.
She placed a hand on Beverly’s arm. “I’m sure everything will run like clockwork.” Since early this morning, the mansion had been buzzing with a full staff of workers getting everything ready for the party. A large white tent had been set up on the grassy section of the yard, just beyond the pool. There was a dance floor and a bar with a bartender. Beverly was in her element as she directed every aspect of the ensemble. Had she not been the wife of a vineyard owner, Beverly would have made one heck of a party planner, Luna decided. There was no telling how much the harvest party cost, but evidently, Todd and Beverly felt like the end justified the means. Luna was learning that keeping up appearances meant a great deal in wine country. Perception equated to reality. If Todd and Beverly’s peers saw them as successful, then half the battle was won.
A smile tipped Beverly’s lips as she looked deep into Luna’s eyes. “Your dad told me about your conversation yesterday in his study.”
“He did?” Luna squeaked.
“Yes.” Tears shimmered in Beverly’s eyes. “What you said to your dad … well, it was what he needed to hear.” Her voice hitched. “He needed to know that you care about the vineyard—that what we’re building means something to you.” Her face took on an inner glow. “Also, it’s nice to know that you love Hudson.”
Laughter bubbled in Luna’s throat. “That does make marriage a much nicer prospect.”
Beverly looked her up and down. “My little girl, all grown up.” She paused. “I’m so proud of you.”
“Thanks,” Luna squeaked, emotion rising in her throat.
“Okay, enough of the waterworks,” Beverly said practically. “We’ve got a party to attend. Shall we?” she said as she hooked her arm through Luna’s and led her out