Page 78 of Bridesmaid Undercover
“Uh, do you know each other?” Mario asks the obvious.
“We do,” Hardy says. “I used to date Maple back in college, and Everly works under the cooperative. She’s also helping with Polly and Ken’s wedding.”
“Oh wow, small world,” Mario says.
Incredibly small.
So small that it almost feels like someone is messing with us.
Because what are the actual odds?
“This isn’t going to be a problem, is it?” Sven asks, looking nervous. “Timothy was really looking forward to being able to put a team together. He’ll be so disappointed if you guys walk out.”
I look over at Maple again who is shyly glancing at Hardy.
Uh, will this be a problem?
Yes.
Yes, this will be a problem.
This will be a big problem for me.
The last thing I want to do is watch Hardy and Maple rekindle their relationship right in front of me. It’s one thing to help make that connection, but it’s another thing to witness it unfold.
I’m hoping Maple feels just uncomfortable enough to back out.
Fingers crossed.
“Well,” she says as she twists her hands in front of her. Go ahead, tell them this would be awkward, so we’re just going to go grab a drink at the bar and hang out there. “I don’t want to disappoint Timothy.”Uh, no, Maple. That’s not the correct answer.“So I guess we can stay. Unless you want to leave, Everly?”
All eyes fall on me.
Sven’s pleading eyes to not disappoint Timothy.
Mario’s interested eyes that keep scanning me up and down—not a fan of that.
Maple’s unsure eyes, begging me to stay.
And of course Hardy’s eyes, imploring me to grant him this opportunity to be closer to Maple.
Damn it.
Damn all of them.
Damn every single one of them and the bowling balls they picked out.
I hope they all throw gutter balls the entire night.
“Oh, no,” I answer, as chill as can be. “I’m ready to bowl.”
The group releases a collective sigh, pizza boxes are opened, and smiles are met all around.
Great. Can’t wait to see where this evening takes me.
Chapter Thirteen
HARDY
