Page 136 of Bridesmaid Undercover

---

I pause from reading.

Everly?

When has he ever called me Everly in an email? Maybe at the beginning, but I’m always Professor.

That’s odd. Maybe he was in a rush.

I continue reading.

With the party in two days, just wanted to make sure everything was set and if you needed help with anything. Give me a shout if you do.

Hardy

Hardy?

He’s signing it…Hardy?

That’s odd.

So not like him.

Actually, very unlike him.

The back of my neck feels prickly as the last few days run through my head. Did I do something wrong? Did I do anything to upset him? Have I said something out of turn?

I don’t think so.

I mean…I haven’t reported back about Maple, but he was just going to go for it. Maybe…oh God, what if things didn’t work out with her? Maybe he’s in a bad mood because of that.

Needing reassurance that I didn’t do anything wrong, I write him back.

To: Hardy Hopper

From: Everly Plum

Subject: RE: Checking In

Henrietta (are you still Henrietta? Just checking.)

Everything is good on my end. Talked with Haisley today, and we’re all set. Spoke with Maple, and she’s good to go. Nothing else needs to be done.

Is everything okay over there? Little confused by the email. Wanting to make sure you’re okay.

The Prof

I press send and set my phone down just as Maggie and Scarlett join me at the table.

“Okay, everyone ready?” Maggie says. “Let’s begin.”

To:Hardy Hopper

From: Everly Plum

Subject: Hey…

Hey Henrietta…Hardy, whoever you are,

Still haven’t heard back and just wanting to make sure all is okay with you. Let me know if you need anything or have any questions.

---