Page 29 of Bridesmaid Undercover
From: Everly Plum
Subject: Henrietta
I think you know what I’ve chosen, not because you need to be one with the birds, but because I’m telling myself if you were a lady, you would be Henrietta Hopper, and nothing sounds better in my head than that.
So, you’re welcome.
And as my first act as the professor, I sent an introduction email to Maple who will be referred to as Syrup from here on out. I told Syrup to take her time getting back to me so when I hear from her, I’ll let you know. I want to get planning soon, but I don’t want to be pushy.
Lastly, I think it might be best if we observe Syrup in her natural environment. I’d like to know what I’m dealing with and some insight from you would be best. If I’m not mistaken,she should be in town by now starting her new job. Care for a trip to the zoo?
The Prof
To:Everly Plum
From: Hardy Hopper
Subject: RE: Henrietta
And that is why your name is The Professor, because you’re incredibly smart.
Yes, I think a zoo trip is needed. How does tomorrow work for you? Meet at the front around noon?
Come disguised, because we must wander undetected.
Over and out,
Henrietta
I shutmy computer screen and stare out the window of the coffee shop, my mind whirling.
What on earth did I just get myself into?
I’m headed to the zoo with the man I’m crushing on, to get some intel on his ex-girlfriend so I can help him hook up with her?
While wearing a disguise?
And acting like I’m really happy and excited to be in this position?
I’ll have to act like I want nothing more than for Hardy and Maple to be a match made in heaven where they ride off into the sunset, hand in hand, a charming rainbow arching over their heart-eyed heads.
Dear God, Everly, is this really where we are at?
Seems like it.
I let out a heavy, confused, and balled-up sigh.
The only question I have left to ask myself is…what the heck am I going to wear as a disguise?
Chapter Six
HARDY
I press my fingers against the fake prosthetic nose that I glued to my face right before I came here, checking to make sure it’s secure. I used the extra-strength glue, so it’ll be a real bitch to take off later, and then I dabbled on some theater makeup to blend the nose into my skin. And I know you must be thinking, do you have experience in theater makeup, Hardy? The answer would be no, but I watched plenty of YouTube videos to make it look legit, and I spoke with the salesperson at the theater makeup store where I purchased the nose.
So, pretty sure I know what I’m doing.
Almost an expert after laying down this schnoz on my face.
