you for saying that. And for putting up with this crazy scheme of mine.”
“Are you kidding? Thank you for all you’re doing to help our organization thrive. Hundreds more people will have access to education and preventive care because of this generous gift.”
“I hope we can raise the million Brent wanted. I guess I’d better go mingle before dinner. I’ll see you later.” Eva left Maryanne’s side with a renewed sense of confidence. This was where she was meant to be, what she was meant to be doing. She may have doubted Angela’s commitment and abilities, but her sister-in-law had said nothing more about her own doubts. And even though they hadn’t talked in a few weeks beyond a handful of texts, each one briefer than the last, Eva had to assume that Angela would reach out if she needed help. Eventually they’d land on the same page, right?
She approached the nearest table and introduced herself to those there. After half an hour of making the rounds and encouraging people to enjoy themselves, Eva finally located Marc and Angela. She excused herself from her present company and made her way across the room, grimacing at how her heels rubbed the spots on her feet that were sore thanks to six weeks of training.
Marc spotted her and waved. Was it her imagination, or did his eyes skim over her ever so briefly? It had been so long since she’d dressed up—he likely just wasn’t used to her wearing more than yoga pants and a tank.
But tonight she’d wanted to stand out, to at least embody colorful hope despite the doubts she’d experienced since they’d started this journey. So when Kimberly had dragged her shopping and Eva had seen the bright red cape-back lace halter gown with the deep V neckline on the rack at Neiman Marcus, she’d put aside her fears and grabbed it without even trying it on.
Seems it had been the perfect choice.
At last, Eva reached Angela and Marc. “Finally found you guys.”
Marc looked handsome as always in his tuxedo. He’d left a bit of a five o’clock shadow on his chin and jaw, cutting a nice blend of classy and rugged. Leaning in, he kissed her on the cheek. “You look beautiful.” He pulled away before she could figure out his cologne, but whatever it was left her with an odd feeling in the pit of her stomach.
Her smile wavered, but she pushed through the nerves. “Thanks. You don’t look so bad yourself.” She turned to face her sister-in-law. “And you look lovely too, Angela.”
Angela sported the pale green empire-waisted bridesmaid dress she’d worn to Eva’s wedding five years ago. Her hair hung in simple ringlets around her shoulders. She looked gorgeous—perhaps more toned from her training?—and yet a certain cloud hung over her. Makeup couldn’t cover the dark bags under her eyes. “Thanks.” Her back was as straight as a stick, and her voice even stiffer. She stared at the ground.
“Where’s Kylee?” Her oldest niece had begged to come, but Eva hadn’t caught a glimpse of her yet.
“Somewhere.” The response was as flat—and distant—as the first.
Eva held in a sigh. She’d so hoped that doing this race would bring her and Angela closer together, help her understand her sister-in-law better. But despite Marc’s gentle admonishment at the end of their yoga class three weeks ago, and Eva’s willingness to try again, apparently Angela felt differently.
Eva turned back to Marc. “Has anyone said they were going to make a decent-sized pledge?”
“Definitely. Although after the program, I’m sure even more people will flood to the booth to donate.” Marc checked the Rolex he saved for special occasions. “Speaking of, it’s almost time for dinner now.”
“Eva.” Angela’s head popped up suddenly. “We need to talk.”
Uh-oh. What was that about?
“Sure—”
“All right, everyone.” Kim’s voice came over the speaker system as the music dimmed. “I know you’re all having a blast, but it’s dinnertime! Don’t worry, though. Once we’ve eaten and heard a bit from our speakers, you will have several more hours to enjoy the casino entertainment, as well as time to place your pledges and enter to win one of our amazing raffle prizes. Please proceed into the dining room and find your name on the seating chart. Bon appétit.”
Eva hooked her arms through Marc’s and Angela’s. “Sorry, Angela, we’ll have to chat afterward. For now, let’s go raise a million dollars for our men.”
* * *
She had to tell Eva. Now.
But every time she tried, Angela lost her nerve.
She