One Tiny Lie – Jennifer Youngblood Page 0,4

tears brimming in her eyes.

Sympathy welled in Luna’s chest. “I’m sorry,” she uttered automatically, even though Beverly was referring to Ava and events that occurred before she and Luna switched places.

“No, I’m sorry,” Beverly said hoarsely, “that you’re being put in a position where you have to save the family.” Her head swung back and forth. “No child should have to bear that responsibility.” A single tear rolled down her cheek. Hastily, she swiped it away as a tremulous smile wobbled over her lips. “On the upside, you’re marrying a wonderful man. He loves you.” She paused. “And I know you will one day come to love him.”

Luna’s eyes misted. “Yes, I believe you’re right,” she said hoarsely.

Beverly blinked, then gurgled out a laugh. “I don’t know what’s happened to you these past few weeks, but it’s wonderful.”

A large smile spread over Luna’s lips. “Really?”

“Really.” She reached for Luna’s hand, her eyes taking on a new luster. “I feel like I’ve gotten my daughter back.” She took in a breath as if trying to clear away the emotion.

“How are the plans coming for Dad’s birthday party?”

“I met with the caterer yesterday.” Her voice was tempered with a mild reproof. “It would’ve been nice to have you there, but you were out of town.”

“I know. Sorry.”

Beverly rushed on, talking with her hands. “Anyway, we decided on tri-tip beef with roasted potatoes, green beans, Caesar salad, and croissants.”

Luna wrinkled her nose. “I thought Dad wanted barbecue, potato salad, and baked beans.”

“Ugh! That’s so tacky.”

“It is Dad’s birthday,” Luna countered as gently as she could.

Beverly’s eyebrow slid up. “I am not going to serve potato salad and baked beans to our guests,” she snipped.

Luna laughed. “Okay, tri-tip beef, it is. What are you doing for the people who don’t eat red meat?”

“You mean the people like Juliette Davenport?” Beverly chimed. “Already thought of that. Herb crusted chicken.”

“What about dessert?”

“An assortment of cheesecakes.”

Luna sat back in her seat, stroking her chin. “Or, since it’s almost fall, you could have caramel apples and a station that makes fresh donuts on the spot.”

Beverly squealed. “Great idea! Your dad will love that.” She babbled on about the fresh flowers, the décor, and all the other details. Luna didn’t mind. She felt like a princess, planning beautiful parties.

“Oh, and I want you to perform.”

Luna’s heart nearly stopped. “Huh?”

Beverly’s eyes shimmered with excitement. “That will be the crowning event. Well, aside from you and Hudson announcing your engagement.”

Luna felt like she was going down a raging river, trying to keep her head above the rapids. “Uh, I’m not sure about that. Hudson and I aren’t really ready to—”

“Nonsense.” Beverly placed a hand on Luna’s arm. “You just leave everything to me.”

Luna’s throat felt smaller than a toothpick as she swallowed. “What do you mean?”

“You’ll see,” Beverly chimed with a juicy smile.

“Buenos dias, amigas bonitas! You’re up early this morning. Oosh. It’s cold out here.”

Luna and Beverly turned as Rosalyn ambled toward them, rubbing her arms. Dressed in a black top, matching slacks, and white tennis shoes, Rosalyn’s dark curly hair was smoothed back into a bun, her only makeup was a touch of mascara and burgundy lipstick. Even so, she was a striking woman with her black eyes, olive skin, and distinctive features. From the moment Luna stepped foot onto the Arbutus Rim Vineyard, she’d felt a kinship with the no-nonsense, middle-aged housekeeper, probably because she reminded Luna a little of her Grandma Peach.

Rosalyn brought her hands together. “What would you ladies like for breakfast?”

Beverly placed her order of a poached egg, toast, and juice.

“How about you?” Rosalyn asked. Before Luna could answer, a knowing smile spread over Rosalyn’s lips. “I’ll make your favorite—blueberry pancakes and scrambled eggs with cheese.”

“No, that’s not right.” A deep furrow creased Beverly’s brows as she turned to Luna. “You can’t stand blueberries.”

Rosalyn’s laughter cut her off. “That might’ve been the case in the past, but she certainly likes them now.”

“That’s true,” Luna conceded. She shifted in her seat when she felt Rosalyn’s astute gaze on her. Their eyes met. Hot prickles rained down on Luna like a thousand needles, and she got the distinct impression that Rosalyn knew she was an imposter. Then, as quickly as the feeling came it faded, making Luna wonder if she was imagining things. Rosalyn’s expression was now placid.

“Okay, make it unanimous. I’ll have blueberry pancakes too.” Beverly touched her stomach. “I guess this means I’m having a salad for lunch. I can’t do carbs two meals in