Chapter 1

“Ok Cheryl. Yes. I’ll be there at 9 am sharp. Thanks so much. Bye.”

It had taken everything inside of Whitney Russell’s body NOT to yell like a five year old at Christmas. She had finally done it. It was to be the wedding of the decade and it was hers to plan. Cheryl said that they had been “blown away” by her job on the Wilcox wedding. They just had to have this Whitney Russell plan their son’s wedding. It had to be the best after all.

“Oh My GOD! Ok Whitney. Calm down and stay focused.” Whitney Russell wasn’t usually one to focus on herself. Her best friend Theresa had made a point of often calling her “the shining example of selflessness.” But right now was a moment in which she would allow herself to be completely selfish. She had gotten the account every wedding planner in the country wanted. And she had gotten it because she was good. Damn good. “I have to call Theresa. She’ll never believe it,” Whitney proceeded to dial her best friend’s number to tell her the good news.

“Hello,” she answered the phone a little groggy on the third ring. She’d of picked it up the ring before, but she had to remove her husband’s arm from around her waist.
“Theresa,” Whitney asked knowing she had taking her best friend out of her slumber. “I’m sorry, you and Ethan are sleeping. I’ll call you back.,” Whitney said as she was about to hang up the phone

Theresa let the ends of her lips curl up as she thought about what Whitney looked like on the other end of the phone. She knew Whitney was mad at herself for waking her, even if she could care less. “Whitney, relax. It’s fine,” she said reassuringly. “Now what’s so important that you decided to call me,” Theresa said, her interest peaked. It was only 8 in California, but that was 11 at night Harmony time. Theresa had been asleep for about an hour or so. She had just put Alexa down for the night and when she got in the room, Ethan was already passed out cold. She was in need of adult conversation at the moment.

“Well,” Whitney said not able to contain her excitement, “I just had to tell SOMEONE that I got the Crane wedding,” she finished as she stifled back the yell that she had wanted to let out.

OH MY GOD! Whit! Congratulations. I told you that it was in the bag,” her best friend was now grinning ear to ear and loudly expressing her joy for her friend.

“Honey, what’s going on,” Ethan turned over less than pleased that his wife awakened him with her noise level.
“Oh Ethan honey, I’m sorry,” she said as she realized he was awake, “It’s just that Whitney got the Crane wedding. We were just celebrating a little,” she said as she gave him a peck on the check and told him to go back to sleep. “Hey Whit, I call you later when we can be as loud as we want,” she chuckled.

“Yeah, I have to get to bed anyway. I have to be and at the agency by 9,” Whitney said. “I love you Theresa,” Whitney told her best friend before she hung up the phone. Whitney always said this ever since the unthinkable had happened all those years ago.

“Love you too Whit, Theresa shot back. “And I’m very proud of you. I’ll talk to you later,” she said as they both hung up the phone and went to sleep
**********************************************
MEANWHILE IN HARMONY

“Nicky, where are you,” she said in her snobby undertone. “I have to fly to California for the meeting tomorrow. Aren’t you going to say goodbye to me,” Gwen Hotchkiss asked pleadingly as she continued to search for her fiancé.

“Yes Gwen, you called,” Nicholas Foxworth Crane stepped through the door book in hand, looking as if he had been concentrating far to hard. His blond hair wasn’t quite as spikey as it should be and his brows stood in furrow.

“Yes dear. I’m leaving now. I wanted to say goodbye,” she said as she walked toward him and gave him a peck on the check. He fought his natural reaction to jump away and forced himself to accept the kiss. She was after all, the woman he had to marry. It was to be the “wedding of the decade.” He was the heir to an empire. It was now or never.

“Have a safe trip dearest,” he said as sarcastically as he could without taking the sugary sweet edge off of it. “I’ll see you in a few days,” he said as he left to go back to his reading.

Chapter 2

“Good morning Whitney,” Cheryl acknowledged her as she walked through her office door. She was a woman of average height, but she wore her hair in a bun and had on a “I mean business” suit. “Are you ready to meet with Ms. Hotchkiss?”

“Yes I am Cheryl,” Whitney said eager to get this wedding started. She had about 8 months to get everything perfect, but she still felt time was of the essence. “Is she here yet?”

“She’ll be here in 10,” Cheryl replied. “I suggest you go and get ready. She’ll be a handful,” she gave her a warning with cautious optimism.

“I’m on my way. Wish me luck,” Whitney said as she left and headed to her office.

“Good luck Whitney,” Cheryl said as she left the room. “You’ll need it,” she mumbled under her breath so that Whitney wouldn’t hear it.

Ten minutes later there was a knock at Whitney’s door. She placed her coffee on her desk and told the person to come in. It was Gayle the secretary. “Ms. Russell, Ms. Hotchkiss is here to see you. She says she has an appointment.”

“Send her in Gayle. And thank you,” Whitney said as she sent her on her way. A few seconds later, Gwen Hotchkiss entered Whitney’s office. She was dressed in a grey cocktail dress that cut off right above her knees. Her blond hair was bone straight and shoulder length. She was the quintessential picture of a New England socialite. And she moved like she knew it. Whitney had seen her in pictures before, but she was truly taken aback by her beauty. Not to mention her attitude. She could tell these next 8 months would be interesting to say the least. She quickly raised herself out of her seat to shake Gwen’s hand.

“Gwen Hotchkiss. It’s nice to meet you,” she said as she extended her hand towards her newest client.

“That’s Miss Hotchkiss to you Miss Russell,” Gwen replied snidely as she took her seat in front of Whitney’s desk. “Miss Russell, first things first. I CANNOT do this. Flying all the way out to California, Los Angeles no less, to meet with MY wedding planner.”
Whitney looked at her as if she was the most ridiculous woman on earth, but she continued to listen as Gwen continued to speak.

“I know that my parents are paying you an amount of money that I cannot fathom to make this the biggest and best wedding in New England’s elite social history. And because of that, I feel that it is best if you come to Harmony and work from there. There is a studio there that my family owns and that way you can be at the site where the wedding is to take place.”

Gwen continued to talk, but Whitney had stopped listening when she said “come to Harmony.” Whitney felt her heart stop. “Come to Harmony,” kept ringing in her head. She couldn’t “come to Harmony” She had vowed never to go back to Harmony again. Not even for the birth of her goddaughter Alexa. She’d had only seen Alexa, Theresa and Ethan when they had managed to fly out to L.A and visit her. The same thing with her parents and her sister. But that’s because they knew. They knew she couldn’t come back Not after what had happened 5 years ago. 5 years ago had marked the worst day of her life.

“Miss Russell, are you even listening to me,” Gwen said, clearly becoming agitated. This Whitney Russell may be the best wedding planner in the country, but she sure wasn’t living up to her reputation at the moment.

“Yes Gw..Miss Hotchkiss. I was just thinking,” she continued hesitantly, “that coming to Harmony isn’t really necessary. I mean, I can plan your wedding from here, and then send some of my assistants to set everything up,” she finished her statement wearily.

“That is not acceptable,” Gwen shot back at Whitney. “You are being paid top dollar. YOU will be responsible for this wedding from now until I leave for my honeymoon. Is THAT CLEAR,’ Gwen finished in an indignant tone. Whitney now had a decision to make. If she pulled this wedding off, she could start her own agency and set herself up for the rest of her life. But that meant going back to Harmony. Something she hadn’t been able to do in 5 years. She took a deep breath before answering the question.

“That’s quite clear Miss Hotchkiss. I will be in Harmony next week. We can wait until then to start the planning. Is that ok,” Whitney asked in a state of disbelief. She couldn’t believe she had just agreed to go back to Harmony. Back to the place her life changed forever.

“That will be fine,” Gwen agreed as she stood and exited the office.

Whitney just sat there. Harmony had changed her once. And she had a strange feeling that going back would change her forever. She got up and proceeded to Cheryl’s office and then decided to call Theresa and tell her the news. She was coming home

Chapter 3

It had been a week since she had agreed to come back to Harmony to plan the Crane wedding. She kept fighting the urge to call Cheryl and simply turn the account over to someone else. But this was HER job. She had earned it. Everyone was proud of her. She knew he would have been. She sat there dazed as she let her mind drift backward to 6 years ago, where she kept him safely tucked away in times like these.

Flashback

"Come ON Theresa. Seriously. How many outfits can you try on? It’s not like Ethan is going to care. He’s head over heels in love with you already. You’re past the point of dressing to impress him,” Whitney stated growing agitated with her friend’s need to all of sudden be fashion forward.

“I know I’m acting a little stressed Whitney. But tonight is the night that Ethan is meeting with his Harvard family. He invited me to meet the people who hold his future in their hands. I figured that it’s a big step. So the least I can do is dress for the occasion,’ Theresa finished her rambling as she proceeded to straighten a few stay hairs. “And besides, your one to talk. It doesn’t seem like your donning sweats for one Noah Bennett,” Theresa remarked sarcastically. “If I didn’t know you better, I’d think you were trying to get lucky,” Theresa winked at her best friend.

“Theresa Lopez-Fitzgerald! You KNOW me better than that,” Whitney protested. She knew Theresa was joking, but she still didn’t like the implication.

“Relax Whitney. Could you get the door? That’s probably the brother’s Bennett now.

Whitney bounded down the stairs as fast her legs could carry her. When she opened the door, there stood Ethan and Noah Bennett. They were both dressed immaculately. “Hey you,” Whitney said as she grabbed Noah and kissed him passionately before he could respond to her statement. After what seemed like several minutes, they finally came up for air.

“Well hello to you too,” was all he could muster after such a kiss. Noah had been in love with Whitney Russell since they were all little kids in the sandbox. But he had waited patiently for almost 17 years before Whitney finally woke up and realized that she was in fact in love with him. They had been together for only 6 months, which was nothing compared to Theresa and Ethan’s two years, but they knew that they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together. They were bound with youthful determination and bright futures. They knew they could make it work

Whitney finally turned her head to the left to acknowledge Ethan, who was waiting patiently as always for Theresa. “Hello Ethan,” Whitney said getting his attention.

“Oh, you’re talking to me are you? I didn’t realize you two had come up for air yet,” Ethan said sarcastically. “In that case, good evening Miss Russell. Do you have any idea when Theresa will decide to make an appearance? At this rate, I’m guessing it’s enough to get me kicked out of Harvard before I’m even get there.

“She’s coming,” Whitney said. “And while we wait, I think Noah and I will go sit in the car and….talk,” she said with a playful tone as Noah followed her out the door.

End Flashback

Whitney awoke with tears in her eyes. She was truly dreading her return to Harmony. Everywhere she would turn, she would be reminded of what she had lost. His death had been senseless enough. The drunk driver had blind-sided him on his way back from Boston. He had just finished visiting Ethan at school. They had spent the day in the city planning something for her and Theresa. He had talked Ethan into it. And now he life was over right before his 18th birthday.

“Oh Noah,” she sighed inwardly, “I know you’re watching. How on Earth am I ever going to survive this for 8 months when you’re going to be everywhere I turn?” Whitney wept a little more before closing her eyes and sleeping for the rest of her flight. She would need all the energy she could muster.
**********************************************
Meanwhile in Harmony

“Good morning son. What exciting escapade are you starting this morning,” Julian said in a seething tone as he acknowledged his son. “Maybe avoidance of the fiancée, “ he finished with a knowing chuckle.

“You do seem to enjoy my misery father,” Fox shot back. He had learned long ago that one liners were a good defense mechanism against his family members. “Actually, I was going to go and chat with…Suzanna, I think was her name,” Fox continued with a knowing smile on his face.

“You enjoy chasing after my seconds,” Julian replied half-heartedly.

“No father, I believe it’s the other way around,” Fox replied with all the arrogance he could. Julian looked at his son, his eyes filled with disdain and pride at the same time. He got up and left the room with vodka in hand, ready to continue with his many escapades.

Fox waited until he was gone to give into the knot he felt forming in his stomach. Who was he becoming? Yes, he was a Crane. That fact used to bother him years ago, but he had grown accustom to everything good and bad that came along with it. But his main goal was business. He was the next in line, heir to the empire. He had taken great strides to ensure that he would run the family business once his grandfather passed. The biggest of which was agreeing to marry Gwen Hotchkiss. He LOATHED the woman. But she was worth millions, and his family wanted the merger. Besides, his grandfather had signed the contract. Upon him saying “I do,” Fox stood to gain majority control of Crane Industries. He smiled to himself. He knew what he was doing. He had every intention of gaining control of the company and making it something his grandmother would’ve been proud of. His grandmother had been his absolute favorite person. She loved him in spite of himself. And he had promised her on her deathbed that nothing would stop him from making the business something anyone would be proud of. Even if it meant his happiness. He knew his grandmother wouldn’t approve, but he was doing it for her. And if he admitted it, a little for himself as well. He had resolved himself to be this “good man” that his grandmother Rachael had thought him to be. And there wasn’t a person alive that was going to knock Nicolas Foxworth Crane

Chapter 4


“Look Ethan, there she is,” Theresa said excitedly while she as grabbed Ethan’s hand and pushed the stroller toward the arrival gate. She was seeing her best friend up close for the first time in about a year. “WHITNEY,’ she yelled as the two of them made eye contact. She proceeded to hand the stroller over to her husband and ran and grabbed her best friend, resolving never to let her go again.

“Oh my God. THERESA!” Whitney yelled back. The two met half way and hugged like most friends would. They figured that half the airport was starring, but they could have cared less. After several moments, they finally let go of one another. Theresa broke the silence first

“Hi you. Are you ok so far,” Theresa asked in a worried tone. She knew this was extremely hard on Whitney. Hard enough that it had been five years since she had come home. She had never tried to pressure her into coming back, but she would be lying if she said she wasn’t excited to have her here, even if it was only for 8 months.

“So far, so good,” was Whitney’s deadpan reply. She knew Theresa saw the red in her eyes, but had decided not to bring it up. She knew that she was waiting for her to say it in her own time. “So, where is that beautiful godchild of mine,” Whitney continued with a hint of cheer at thought of Alexa.

“Right there with her daddy,” Theresa beamed at the mention of her family. “She can’t wait to see Aunt Whitney. Every time I told her you were coming, she smiled,” Theresa told Whitney. Whitney couldn’t help but smile back as she made her way over to Alexa and Ethan. She gave Ethan a hello and a hug and then proceeded to pick Alexa up.

“She’s gotten so big,” Whitney said proudly. “I think we’re gonna have to spend some quality time together,” Whitney finished the statement as she smiled at Alexa. The baby smiled back in agreement.

“Feel free to baby-sit,” Ethan chimed in abruptly.

“ETHAN,” Theresa scolded him. “That was a little tasteless, don’t you think?”

“Wow T, marriage has made you a little prudish, don’t you think,” Whitney shot her a look that left Theresa dumbfounded. “You know you wanted to say the same thing. And I’d be happy to, once I figure out my schedule,” she finished the statement while giving Ethan the “I got her” look.

“I AM NOT a prude,” Theresa shot back. “Now, why don’t we all just go home. Whitney here has a busy day ahead of her.” And with that, they all left to go back to Ethan and Theresa’s house.

It’s a new day in Harmony…..

Fox was doing his best to show interest in what Gwen was saying to him. They were supposed to meet up at 1 pm to go meet with the wedding planner and get started on planning the wedding. Fox had protested, saying he had no interest in helping to plan the wedding. But Gwen had said that it made for a far better public image if they did this together. After all, if a CRANE man helped plan his wedding, most men would follow suit. So he reluctantly agreed to go.

It was now 9 in the morning, and he already wanted her out of the house. She was still rambling on when suddenly he heard his name.

“Nicky, where are you right now,” Gwen asked annoyingly. “I need you to tell me what time you’re leaving this morning, so I can see how much time I have to go to Boston and drop off these files for daddy,” she continued in her whinny tone. He especially hated this tone in her voice and the way she called him Nicky. It was deafening.

“I promised grandfather I’d be in in an hour. So I’m going to go change now,” he said half-heartedly. “I’ll meet you at 1 at,” he stopped to pull out his Blackberry and check the address of this office, “1913 Waterfront Ave.” he finished before heading upstairs.

“Fine. I guess I’ll go to Boston by myself then,” Gwen said, only feigning disappointment. She wasn’t in love with Fox, but she did like having company when she traveled. It made her look important..

It was now 11:30. Fox was finished with his meeting with the Farringtons for today. They were a close business associate of Crane Industries, and he had just inked a new shipping deal with them. He had been swift in his dealings and gotten a damn good deal. He was pretty proud of himself. He glanced at the clock and quickly realized he had another hour to kill before he had to leave to meet with Gwen and the wedding planner. He quickly got up and went over to the closet in his office. He reached in and pulled out a guitar and quickly sat down with it. He began to strum a familiar tune. He had no aspirations to do this professionally. He loved the job he had. But playing guitar was therapeutic for him. He didn’t have much of a voice at all, but he always felt the tension leave his body whenever he played. Too bad no one else knew he played. What on Earth would they think?
**********************************************
Whitney woke up early, and after breakfast said goodbye to Theresa, Ethan and Alexa and headed off to the address that the Crane secretary had given her.

“1913 Waterfront Ave.,” she kept looking at the numbers on the building as she slowly drove her rental car down the block. “Here it is,” she said excitedly, as she parked and go out and made her way to the building. She had been happy that her office was located in a part of town that she and Noah hadn’t frequented. “Oh Noah, please be with me now,” she sent up a silent prayer as she stood before the door to her office. She placed the key in the lock and opened the door. What she saw left her stunned. She had been told that the office was equipped with everything she would need, but she hadn’t believed it until this moment. State of the art computers and high tech systems for her presentations. There was a beautiful desk set with what looked like the most comfortable chair she’d ever seen. She had her own state of the art coffee maker, and they had even had all of her samples and planning materials sent here and set up just how she liked them. She then turned and saw a note. She picked it up and read it. It said, “Dear Miss Russell. I called ahead and told the secretary everything that you need. I hope it is to your liking and that it’s makes the next 8 months comfortable for you. Love Gayle.” Whitney knew at that moment that she had the best secretary alive. She’d have to give her a lot of paid vacation upon her return to L.A. She eventually settled in and made herself a cup of coffee. She called Theresa and Simone to tell them all about her lavish new office, and then she began going over some information to prepare for her 1 o’clock.

“Nicky, you were almost late,” Gwen sneered as she saw Fox approaching her so that they could go inside.

“Sorry, I got a little side tracked. But I’m here now, so let’s go in,” he said without trying to sound mean. They made their way inside and stopped at the receptionist desk in front of Whitney’s office.

“Why are we stopping here,” Gwen asked rudely. “She should be expecting us. We shouldn’t have to announce ourselves,” she continued as she became slightly irate. “And besides, it’s not like she’s working on any other weddings. IS SHE,” Gwen looked down at the receptionist who seemed to fear answering the question.

“Gwen. We stopped because it’s the professional thing to do. We shouldn’t assume anything,” Fox replied calmly. “Miss, is Miss Russell ready for us now,” Fox kindly asked the receptionist, who seemed to be relaxed by his charm.

“Yes she is. You may go in now,” she replied as she smiled at him. “My, he’s handsome,” the receptionist thought to herself. “Why on Earth is he with her?”

Chapter 5

You know, some people say that there are small moments that become big ones. They may seem small now, but in hindsight, they are the life-altering moments that shake us to the core. For Nicholas Foxworth Crane, THIS was one of those moments.

He and Gwen had walked through the office door. It seemed simple enough. Walking through the door to meet with your wedding planner. But NOTHING in his entire 25 years of existence could have prepared him for HER! She stood the moment she saw them come through the door. She was up and ready to greet them. He had literally stopped where he stood. He captured the moment like a still photograph. Her perfect smile, her flawless Mocha skin, her curly locks that were pulled up except for the piece of hair that refused to cooperate. She was without a doubt the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. And though he had never believed himself to be all that spiritual, he was willing at that moment to profess a new found faith. Because only God could make something as wonderful as the woman who stood before him.

Fox gripped Gwen a little tighter, as not to give himself away. He quickly snapped out of his trance and went over with his fiancée’ to introduce himself.

“Hello again Miss Hotchkiss,’ Whitney said with only a slight hint of disdain present. She felt that was pretty good all things considered. “And this must be Mr. Crane,” Whitney asked extended her hand toward hers.

“That’s Nicholas Foxworth Crane Miss. Russell, but you may call me Nicholas if you’d like,” he said shaking her hand back and quickly taking his seat. He felt that was his safest bet.

“Ok Miss Hotchkiss and Mr..err Nicholas. First things first. Let’s decide where this wedding should take place and exactly what type of dress we are going to put you in Miss Hotchkiss,” Whitney began in her professional manner.

Two hours later, after narrowing down the possible locations to three places and coming up with someone that both Whitney and Gwen agreed would be perfect as a designer for both Gwen’s dress and Fox’s tux, Gwen and Fox left Whitney’s office.

“Boy, I sure hope Theresa doesn’t kill me when I tell her that Gwen wants her to design her dress,” Whitney said only feigning concern. She knew her friend was the best designer and highly sought after. Gwen had genuinely lit up when Whitney had said that she could certainly get Theresa Bennett to design her gown. It was after that thought that Whitney finally took a deep breathe and started to think about her day. She had started the ball rolling on the most important wedding of her life. Well, maybe next to her own. “Yeah right Whitney. And just WHO am I gonna marry. The sad truth is Noah is gone. And I haven’t come across another guy in 5 years,” Whitney told herself, trying to ignore that nagging feeling that told her she was lying. “Well, at least Nicolas was nice,” she thought to herself with a smile. She saw his face in that moment, and she couldn’t help the little butterfly that she felt in her stomach. She hadn’t felt that in ages.

“Why is he marrying that woman anyway,” she started asking herself. In two hours of knowing him, she had determined that he was WAY too good for her. She had expected him to be just as stuck up as Gwen was. But from the moment he had stepped foot into her office, she could tell that wouldn’t be the case. And it was their handshake that confirmed it. Well, that and that look of sincerity in his eyes. “And his face,” she thought.. She had seen plenty of pictures of him, but they did him NO justice. “He should hire a better photographer,” she thought to herself. Whitney sat there for a few more moments sipping on some coffee, trying to relax. She knew she would have to leave soon and talk to Theresa about Gwen’s dress. She needed all the energy she could muster to make this conversation a success.
**********************************************
Fox sat in the study, contemplating what today meant. “Where did Whitney Russell come from,” he thought to himself. “I can’t work with her. She makes me uneasy,” he admitted less than enthusiastically to himself. “I can’t lose focus when I’m so close to what I’ve worked for,” he said, further reprimanding himself. “But I can’t tell Gwen that I don’t want to be a part of this. She’ll get suspicious,” he continued to contemplate. “And I KNOW how she gets when she fells threatened,” he shook his head. “I could handle her, but Whitney couldn’t,” he said to himself, quickly damining himself for caring about Whitney Russell at all. “You don’t even know her you idiot. Chill out,” he further scolded himself. “Be a Crane about this,” he finally came to some sort of resolution about the situation. “Be a cold, uncaring Crane, and everything will be fine,” he said convincingly as went off to his room.
**********************************************
Whitney placed the keys in the door and turned the knob to open it. When she stepped inside, she saw Theresa and Ethan sitting on the couch with two “Thank God she didn’t catch us” looks on their faces. Whitney immediately felt guilty.

“Guys, I’m SO sorry. I’ll just start moving my stuff to the apartment now. I didn’t mean to interrupt,” Whitney said as she started inching toward the staircase. Theresa opened her mouth to stop Whitney where she stood.

“Whitney, it’s ok,” Theresa said reassuredly. “You said you needed a week to get settled into your apartment. So you’re staying here until then, and that’s final.

“Yeah, Whitney, don’t think you’re gonna get away that easily,” Ethan backed his wife up. “And besides, you’re built in baby help. Not to mention Theresa can talk YOU too death instead of me,” Ethan said sarcastically, but quickly wished he could have taken it back when Theresa shot him daggers. “Yeah...so... I’m gonna go check on Alexa now,” he said, quickly giving his wife a peck on the check and heading upstairs.

“I swear that man,” Theresa started, but elected to stop so that she could talk to her best friend. “So Whit, how was your first meeting with your big clients,” Theresa said with a smile on her face. She was so proud of Whitney.

“Oh, it went well,” Whitney said half heartedly.

“Wow, don’t sound so excited Whit,” Theresa said sarcastically. “I know along with the rest of the free world that Gwen Hotchkiss is….less than likeable, but if you can stick it out for 8 months, she’ll be an afterthought,” Theresa said, proud that she had avoided using profanity. Even if it did fit.

“Yeah, she’s not my favorite person. But at least Nicholas was nice,” Whitney said with a the corners of her mouth creeping up unconscientiously. This didn’t go unnoticed by Theresa

“Oh, so you’re on a first name basis with a Crane now, are you?” Theresa said rather coyly. “He’s rich, nice AND devastatingly handsome. Maybe I should reconsider being married to Ethan,” Theresa said jokingly to her friend

“I heard that,” Ethan said as he came down the stairs carrying Alexa in his arms. “And to think, I’m coming downstairs to feed OUR child. Mr. Moneybags wouldn’t do that. Nor would Mr. Moneybags have made her as cute as she is,” Ethan said matter-of-factly.

“He’s right Whit. How can I resist the man when he’s holding our daughter,” Theresa said shooting a loving look Ethan’s way as he left to go to the kitchen.. “But seriously Whit, back to the situation at hand. Since when are you and Nicholas Crane on a first name basis,” she asked her friend quizzically.

“Well, he asked me to call him Nicholas. I find it best if the professional obliges the client’s wishes,” Whitney answered as professionally as she could.

“Ok, I’ll buy it,” Theresa said, knowing she would bring it up later. “So, are you allowed to tell where it’s gonna be yet, or what she’s wearing. Or any of those other details,” Theresa bombarded her friend with questions like a kindergartener.

“Well, kind of. We didn’t pick a spot exactly,” Whitney said. “And as for the dress,” Whitney said, hesitant to continue.

“What, what about the dress,” Theresa asked, knowing she couldn’t resist.

“Ikindoftoldheryou’ddoit,” Whitney ran the sentence together hoping Theresa wouldn’t hear her.

“Say that again Whitney,” Theresa said, although she had a sinking feeling that she had heard her correctly.

“I kind of told her that you would do it,” Whitney said ready to explain to her friend the case for why she should. “She absolutely loved the idea of her wedding dress being made by you T. And she is my only client right now. So I was just trying to make her happy,” Whitney let it all come out at once.

“I see,” was all Theresa could muster

“And I completely understand if you don’t want to do it. But least I remind you who covered for you all those nights that you snuck out the house to meet lover boy in the kitchen,” Whitney stated. She knew it was low, but this was the only way she could think to save her suddenly questionable friendship and her account.

“Wow Whit. That was low. Not to mention desperate,” Theresa said, as she suddenly let out a small chuckle. “I never thought you’d pull that card. I’m almost proud of you,” Theresa said with a smile on her face. “I guess I could at least meet with her. But only for you,” Theresa was quick to iterate. She did want to meet this Gwen character. She knew that look on her friends face when she mentioned “Nicholas” as she referred to him. And if she could swing it, she was going to make sure that Whitney’s smile only grew because of one Nicholas Foxworth Crane.

Chapter 6

The cold misty air beat against her lungs as she strolled down the Main St. of Harmony. She was on her lunch break. The past two weeks of negotiations with the country club representative had been intense. She was trying to get the best location for the wedding, and all three places were trying to bleed these people dry. She knew money was no object to the Cranes or the Hotchkiss families, but she believed it was the principle of the matter. She owed them the best deal she could get them.

The gloomy weather that was the end of summer bleeding into the famous New England fall on the last days of September was all around her. It was the exact opposite of California weather. She would be working on her tan if she were back home. “But you are home,” Whitney reminded herself. In fact, if she were being honest with herself, she had chosen California because everything about it was the opposite of Harmony. It had made it easier for her to forget. Nothing in California reminded her of him, of the life they had planned to live one day. As she continued walking, she found herself admiring some of the trinkets she spotted in the windows. She even saw a cute rattler with bunnies on it that she thought would be perfect for Alexa. She did enjoy seeing her goddaughter everyday. And Theresa. She had made friends in California, even managing to hook up with one of her sorors from her college days who lived only few blocks away. But Theresa had and always would be her best friend. She was there for her through the best and worst times of her life. She had been since they were kids in diapers. She loved as much as she loved her own sister, maybe even more at times. It was even Theresa and her dreams of becoming a designer that got her into the idea of planning weddings. She figured if her best friend could make the dress, than she could finish the job by putting the rest of the wedding together. She was especially grateful to her now, for helping her cope with coming back home.

Whitney was so deep in thought that she was taken aback as she realized where she had walked to. High Tides Beachside Bistro stood before her. The place where she had worked as a teenager to make extra cash. The place that he would come everyday, convinced that that was the day she’d say yes to a date with him. She stood there in shock, letting the memories take her over. In a fit of nostalgia, she decided to go in and grab a bite to eat. She decided to relax with her coffee and the thoughts of a happy past.

He sat at his desk, trying to block out the image of her smile. “God dammit,” he said just above a whisper. “I’ve got to get a grip. She’s just a woman,” he said as her further reprimanded himself. It had been two weeks since he had met Whitney Russell. He vowed after leaving the office that he would never think of her again. But he realized that every time he was alone, he failed at this task miserably.

“You cannot fail Fox, not now,” he chanted to himself like a pseudo Tony Robbins. This marriage was the dealmaker for him and his plans. He didn’t have time for frivolous things like emotions. The thought of failing his grandmother and himself quickly snapped into Crane mode. He had resolved to be cold and uncaring, and he was. He decided that he was also hungry, and called up Sadie at the High Tides Bistro to fill his usual. “Cold and uncaring,” he repeated as he left the office to pick up his lunch.
**********************************************

“Sadie my love, tell me my food’s ready? I’m a starving man,” Fox burst through the door of the bistro ready to grab his lunch and go. He quickly realized however, that Sadie was in the middle of a conversation. She spotted him as he stated his request, motioning to the woman whose back was to Nicholas to hold for a moment.

“Foxy baby, you know I have your order ready to go,” Sadie said playfully. Sadie was a petite woman with long brunette hair and slightly olive skin. She had a hint of gray in her hair, but she carried it just like she carried the wisdom that belied her 50 plus years on Earth. She also had tons of attitude and at thick Maine accent to match.

“You never let me down my love,” Fox replied back, happy to be in such a loving environment. He knew it was easy for him as a Crane, to have one of his workers run down to the bistro to grab his lunches, but he relished the feel of the place. It’s quaint tables, the fireplace, the crowd of young people, and Sadie, all made it feel so welcoming. He also noticed Sadie talking to a young woman. He quickly reprimanded himself, because for one moment, he swore it was Whitney from behind. Her curly locks handing down, covering the collar of her shirt. He was sipping what he could only assume was coffee as she slumped slightly against the counter, looking content for the moment. “I’m sorry to interrupt your conversation my love. I’ll let you get back to it. And thanks,” Nicholas said as he turned around.

Whitney must have been in a daze. She was reminiscing about the old days when she worked here with Sadie, when the conversation stopped. She had pictured Noah, coming through the door, yet another bundle of flowers in hand, ready to ask her if she wanted that date tonight. She was so deep in thought, that she almost missed his voice. But she heard him apologize. “No, it can’t be,” she thought. Sadie had called him Fox, or something like that. THE Nicholas Crane surely wouldn’t let someone address him so informally. I mean yes, he had told her to call him Nicholas, but that was his given name. She took the chance however, and slowly turned around. She was not disappointed. The rear view of Nicholas Crane in pair of slacks was a surely best selling poster for Kodak. “Nicholas,” she called out to him questioningly. “Is that you?” she asked this time.

He turned around, paralyzed by her voice. It did something to him, something he didn’t like, or didn’t want to admit he did. “Cold and uncaring” he chanted to himself. “Yes,” he responded in a manner that pleased him. “It’s me,” he said innocently enough

“What are you doing at High Tides,” she asked curiously. Her client had intrigued her by his choice of restaurants.

“What, you don’t think Cranes know about places like this,” he asked defensively.
“Whoa, I simply asked you a question,” Whitney responded as her face tightened. She wanted to say that he was in a bad mood, but it still gave him no right to take it out on her, in front of Sadie.

“No, I know what you implied. Am I intruding on your personal space Ms. Russell? Maybe I should ask you why you’re here. I mean, you’ve been in Harmony all of two seconds. For all you know, you could be on Crane property,” he finished in an indignant tone that masked his urge to ask her how her days was, or why her eyes seemed sad when he saw her.

“You know what Mr. Crane,” she said angrily, “you have a lot of nerve. I don’t have to explain myself to you,” she said grabbing her purse, prepared to walk out. And she did, headed straight for the door and out of High Tides.

“MY SENTIMENTS EXACTLY,” he yelled to her as she left. Who the hell was she prying into his life? “She called me Mr. Crane,” he said to himself, the words stinging more than he would let on. He went over to Sadie, kissed her on the cheek and said his goodbye. He then exited the bistro, prepared to go bury himself in paperwork and forget about Whitney Russell.

Sadie having seen all of this simply smiled. She knew Whitney was working the Crane wedding. She had been more excited about it than she had let on to Whitney. Deep down, she thought it was the best thing that would happen to her. Fox, as she called him, per his request, was an amazing man. He was trapped by his duties and his family name. But a woman like Whitney Russell. Sadie chuckled slightly; a woman like Whitney Russell would change his life. And Fox was the just the type of guy Whitney could fall in love with. Noah’s blessing and all.

Chapter 7

Theresa Bennett sat on her couch, head nestled against her shoulder to hold the phone in place. She was fiercely typing away on her laptop during the few peaceful hours that Alexa was sleeping. She was running down ther schedule for the week with her secretary, relieved that her week seemed to be less hectic than usual.

“And today at 4, Kerri is coming in for her fitting, so you have a few hours yet,” her secretary reminded her. “And tomorrow, you are suppose to meet with Gwen Hotchkiss and Nicholas Crane to fit them for the wedding,” her secretary finished.

Theresa rolled her eyes at the meer thought of spending time with Gwen Hotchkiss. “The things I do for Whitney,” she thought quietly to herself as she continued listening to her secretary.

“She seemed eager to have you make her dress,” Megan stated, “even if she was rude,” she finished remembering the hint of annoyance in Gwen’s voice as she called to double check her appointment.

“I’m sure she did,” Theresa said matching Megan’s tone. Suddenly, Theresa realized that Megan said Mr. Crane’s name as well. “Uh Megan, did you say Mr. Crane’s name as well? I don’t remember Whitney mentioning anything about the tux.”

“Well Boss, when Whitney called, she felt that you would be perfect to dress the groom as well. She said she hoped that was okay. In fact,” Megan paused as she shuffled a few papers looking for something. “Ah, here it is. She left me a message to give to you.

Theresa, please don’t kill me, but I forgot to mention that I told them you could do the tux as well. The upside is, you get more money, the downside, you have to have Gwen around longer. Yes yes, I know I owe you. And I’ll pay, I promise. Just help me out here. You know you love me, and I love you back. We’ll talk when I get back. Bye.

Theresa chuckled in response to Whitney’s message. “It’ll be fine Megan. In fact,” Theresa began as a mischievous look crossed her face, “make sure you get me a few minutes of one on one with Mr. Crane. I can only gage what to design for him if I get to know a little bit about him,” she said matter of factly. Megan scheduled it and hung up after emailing her the rest of the schedule that they had agreed upon. Just as Theresa hung up the phone, she heard the door open and close. He immediately made eye contact with her, glad to be able to come home to some peace and quiet, if only for a while.

“What are you doing home,” she said as she stood to greet him, her face still a little a glow from the thought of her own impending actions.

“I got off for lunch early and decided to come spend some time with my wife and kid,” he said finally making it to her and giving her a kiss. He took off his jacket and sat on the couch, where she joined him. “Now, my first question was gonna be how are you. But after seeing the look on your face, I think I should ask what are you up to,” he said with an even tone.

“What? Why would I be up to something,” she asked trying to hide her face, knowing he had already caught her.

“Resa,” he said, getting impatient. “I know that look. Like you’ve just discovered something, and you’ve hatched out some elaborate scheme to get what you want,” he finished, baiting her all along.

“It’s not elaborate,” she retorted, quickly realizing that she’d given herself away. She giggled as she rested her head on his chest. “Okay, I’ll spill, since you’d figure it all out anyway,” she began. “I’m just trying to help Whitney out, that’s all.”

“And did she ASK for your help,” he asked, not liking where this was going.

“Well, sort of,” she said, not quite sure how to answer her husband. “You know how she blackmailed me into making Gwen Hotchkiss’s dress,” she asked, figuring she’d remind Ethan of Whitney’s dirty deed first.
“Um hm”, he said, knowing his wife was trying to soften this up a bit. “Spill it honey,” he said politely

“Okay, well, she didn’t mention I would be designing Fox’s tux as well. But, being the friend that I am, I agreed,” she said innocently.

“I don’t like the way this is sounding Theresa,” he replied back to her. Ethan was always the practical one in the marriage. He liked to reason with life. His wife was obviously the dreamer. It was one of the reasons he was in love with her, but it could drive him crazy.

“Well, I just made sure that Megan scheduled some alone time with Mr. Crane and myself, so I could get a feel for how to dress him,” she replied matter of factly.

“Oh, so you DO have the hots for the Crane,” he said grabbing her into a hug and placing his lips by her ear in a joking manner. “Clearly there can be no other reason he said trying to keep a straight face.

“Tempting as it is, that’s not it,” she stated. “ I happen to like the husband I have, even if Mr. Crane is rich and good looking,” she slid in the comment. “I was actually thinking,” she hesitated, picturing Ethan’s face after she said this, “that since Gwen Hotchkiss is a bitch..”

“Honey, Alexa is in the house, please,” Ethan responded at the use of her word.

“Give me a break Ethan, she’s sleeping. And besides, I’m telling the truth. I’d rather my daughter be able to identify one from an early age. But anyway, she is one, and Whitney isn’t. And from what I hear from Whitney, Mr. Crane isn’t that bad of…

Ethan turned his wife toward him, his eyes questioning, but fearing he knew the answer. “THERESA BENNETT!!! Don’t even THINK about trying to hook your best friend up with Nicholas Crane. Are you trying to get her killed. Us killed. Or if not killed, maybe we’ll starve to death. Because we surely won’t have jobs,” Ethan finished his statement and waited.

“Well, it’s not definite yet. I mean, I haven’t even met the guy. But Ethan, you should’ve seen Whit’s face when she talked about him,” she said with puppy dogs eyes in full effect.

“Don’t do that,” he said, his defenses weakening. “It’s not right Theresa. He’s getting married. You have no right to determine people’s happiness,” he said in a serious tone.

“And I’m not sweetie. But I haven’t seen Whitney smile like that since, since,” she didn’t want to finish the statement. Ethan finished it for her.

“Since my brother died,” he said dead panned. “Look, I know why Whitney stayed away, and I know she didn’t really find anyone in California. But pushing her toward an unavailable man who has a tendency to be a nasty Crane at times, doesn’t exactly seem like the right thing to do honey.”

“I’ll tell you what, if I don’t like him, I’ll let it go,” she responded, trying to end the conversation. “And besides, I missed you,” she said, kissing him hard on the lips. “Alexa is sleeping, and you said you came home to spend quality time with both of us. I’d like to be first on the menu,” she said with a devilish grin as she reached for his shirt.

“You are, but,” he said, “promise me you won’t mess with this,” he looked her in the eyes, ready to give in, but not until he got his answer.

“I promise,” she said as she gave him another kiss. “I’ll just help fate along a little,” she said to herself.


Whitney couldn’t go back to work, she was too angry. And she didn’t want to go back to the house. Alexa was probably sleeping, she couldn’t vent there. Finally, it dawned on her. She stepped on the gas and went to the one person she knew would listen right now.

Chapter 8

There was an incessant knocking at her door. If she didn’t know any better, she would think the person would try to beat the door down. It was loud enough to snap her from the comfortable position she had taken in Ahmad’s arms. As she sat up, the voice on the other end of the door became clear to her, and she quickly rushed to open it, eager to see her. “Oh God Ahmad, she’s here,” she proclaimed as she jumped up

Simone yanked the door open, smile readily planted on her face. It fell however, when she was greeted with her little sister’s fury on the other end of the door.

“Great to see you too Whitney,” she said with a slight disappointment at her sister’s demeanor.

“Not now Simone. I’m about to scream. Family reunions aren’t my top priority if you catch my drift,” Whitney said a little harsher than she should have. She wanted to take it back, but Simone beat her to it.

“Uh uh Whit. You don’t get to make an every five years appearance and start off with that tone. That California sun must have fried your brain. Or those fake people let you believe you were grown,” Simone finished, unfazed. She was about to continue, but Whitney interrupted to apologize.

“I’m sorry Mone. I’m really glad to see you, and I know I shouldn’t have come under these circumstances. But I really needed to talk to someone, and I didn’t want to wake the baby. And I needed someone who is reasonable, and I love T, but that’s not always her forte’,” Whitney finished in one long sentence, catching her breath while she waited for Simone to think.

“Okay, it’s not a problem. I’m here for you, always,” Simone replied reassuring her baby sister. “Ahmad,” Simone started before he interrupted her.

“I’ll just make myself scarce. You can just call me whenever,” he said as he gave Simone a peck on lips and Whitney a quick hug and welcome home before leaving.

Once Ahmad was gone, Simone stared Whitney down. “Okay lil’ sis, shoot,” she said, waiting for an explanation for her greeting at the door.

“Mone, I can’t do this,” she started, already out of sorts.

“Can’t do what Whit,” she asked, having no idea what was eating her baby sister.

“I can’t work the Crane account. It will drive me crazy. And my sanity…my sanity is worth more than notoriety right?,” she asked her sister questioningly.

“Um, hold on. I thought you came back to Harmony for this account. You said you could stay for 8 months and then leave. It would guarantee you your own company. What in the hell are you talking about with this quitting nonsense girl,” Simone asked Whitney. She figured the honesty approach was the best one until she got some answers. “It’s not Noah is it,” Simone continued, her concern growing as she tried to get some type of answers.

“No, it’s not that. Although, that has been kinda hard. But Theresa and Ethan and mom and..”

“Stop babbling girl,” Simone was growing impatient. “I know you want my help, but I’m not a psychic. You have to TELL me what the problem is before I can help you fix it. And it has to be serious if you are talking nonsense like throwing away your career,” she finished glad that she had gotten that all out.

“It’s just that I’ve realized it will be impossible to work with this couple. It was bad enough when I knew she was a bitch,” Whitney started. “But he had me fooled. He seemed nice enough. But now, it turns out he’s a prick too,” she finished as a new batch of rage started to rise within her.

“Who exactly is ‘he’” Simone asked, curious about any man who had envoked passion in her sister.

“Nicho…Mr. Crane,” Whitney said, catching herself in spite of her anger.

“You mean you are gonna let some rich white man force you to throw away your career,” Simone struck back, her disappointment growing. She still was missing something here.

“Well, yeah,” Whitney said as if it was natural. “He was suppose to give me a reason to get through this.

“I don’t understand,” Simone slightly lied. It was more of the fact that she feared the truth. “Did he have it in a contract or something. ‘Must make planning my wedding bearable for Miss Russell’, Simone finished, satisfied with that question. That would get her the answer she needed.

“No,” Whitney replied, defeated. And then, she developed a somewhat whimsical tone. “It’s just, he seemed so sincere Mone. Like he was the kind one. He even told me to call him Nicholas. But then today, I see him by chance at High Tides,” she said, but was interrupted by a shocked Simone.

“You went to High Tides,” she asked, not bothering to hide the concern in her voice. “Are you sure you were ready to do that,” she continued, her concern for Whitney’s emotional state growing.

“It was fine Mone, really. Noah and I…we had a lot of good memories there. In fact, I was just catching up with Sadie when Satan walked through the door. Only, he wasn’t Satan when he first walked in.

Simone got ready to respond, but suddenly, she stopped. It was strange. There was this sudden, far off look in her sister’s eyes. A look she hadn’t seen in..in..in five years. She obviously wanted to think that this Mr. Crane was a jerk, but she couldn’t. For the first time in a long time, she saw parts of the little sister she secretly missed. The one with fire, passion and hope. Something in the way she felt when he first walked through the door at High Tides had stuck with Whitney. Quickly, Simone remembered Whitney was still talking.

“So that’s when he straight snapped at me Mone,” Whitney finished emphatically, her rage had now returned. “I asked him ONE question, and he goes off on this tangent. If I would’ve hit him, I would be out of a job. But I really thought about it Mone,” she said reliving the event. “So now I’ll ask you, why should I keep this account,” she asked, truly at a loss.

“Um, because you earned it dear,” Simone said as if it was simple logic. “I mean, I’m sure you’ve had,” Simone searched for a meaningful word, “assholes,” she stated, proud that it was that simple. “But your job is more important. You got through the Wilcox wedding, and they were both brats. You’ll be fine,” she finished reassuring her sister. She truly believed it too. After all, Whitney was one of the calmest people she knew. She could tolerate almost anyone. She liked to find common ground for the greater good. One of those types. “Are you sure that’s all that’s eating you,” Simone asked, still concerned, knowing that she hadn’t gotten the whole truth.

“I’m fine,’ she began hesitantly. “I’m just mad at myself for letting him get to me I suppose. And then to top it off, it’s a bad memory in a place where I’ve only had good ones…with Noah,” she finished, now melancholy. “You know, I think I know what to do,” she said as she grabbed her bag. “Thanks for listening Mone,” Whit went to give her sister a hug. “And I’m sorry that we saw each other like this. I promise, me and you time. Stress free,” she chuckled slightly as she dug her keys out of her purse.

“Don’t worry about it,” she said nonchalantly. “That’s what I’m here for. And yes, I will get one on one time. If not, I’d kill you,” she said, only half joking.

“I know you would,” Whitney replied. “Rights and privileges of the oldest right,” she finished.

“Yep,” Simone said. “Do me a favor, call me when you get in, okay,” Simone said in a maternal type of tone.

“Yes mother,” Whitney replied. She knew Simone was now concerned, but she couldn’t bring herself to fully explain why today had upset her so much. She was still trying to explain it to herself.


As soon as Whitney left, Simone took out her cell phone. She called Ahmad and let him know it was safe to come back now. He told her he wanted to pick up groceries and cook her dinner. She sat back down, replaying her conversation with her sister over in her mind. “Something else is wrong,” she thought out loud. Suddenly, she got an idea. She took her cell back out browsed her phonebook. “The only person crazier than my ass,” Simone chuckled to herself. “But I bet you she’ll help me get to the bottom of this.” She let the phone ring. On the third ring, she finally got an answer. “Yes hello, Theresa, it’s Simone Russell,” she began. “What in the HELL is wrong with your best friend,” she finished emphatically.

Chapter 9

“Well hello Simone. I’m fine. Ethan and Alexa are too,” Theresa finished, taken aback by the fact that Whitney’s older sister had called her at all, much less with a question like that one.

“I don’t have time for games Theresa,” Simone responded, thinking that Theresa’s response was none too cute at the moment. “I need you to answer my question,” she restated.

“Well, I have no clue why you asked me,” Theresa said sincerely. “But since you called her my best friend instead of your sister, I’m assuming something happened. So why don’t you fill me in, and I’ll try to answer your question,” Theresa replied rather calmly. It shocked Simone a bit. Maybe when it came to Whitney, she got a level head.

“Okay look crazy girl, Whitney practically barged in here earlier talking about giving up the Crane account,” Simone said as she began to rehash what had just happened.
“What,” Theresa said shocked

“What..what,” Ethan asked, snapping his head up after quickly nodding off

“Nothing Ethan. I umm, think Alexa is up. Can you go check on her,” she asked politely.

“I don’t hear anything,” Ethan replied matter of factly while he got up and put his pants back on.

“No, you do hear her honey,” Theresa said through her teeth. Ethan got the hint, threw on a T-shirt sitting in the laundry basket and left to go spend quality time with his child, whether she wanted him to or not.

“Okay, so back to my question, WHAT,” Theresa restated the obvious. “I know Gwen Hotchkiss is a bitch, but she just left Megan a message this morning saying that I had a fitting with Gwen and Mr. Crane tomorrow,” Theresa said, making a case for why this all seemed so far fetched. “In fact, Whitney practically blackmailed me to get me to agree to making the dress in the first place. And then she sprung the tux on me today,” Theresa finished, now waiting for Simone to respond.

“Well, I’m sure that part wasn’t hard,” Simone said sarcastically.

“Um, with all due respect Simone, you called me. If all you’re gonna do is talk about me, then hanging up is an option,” Theresa gave the ultimatum. “I want to help Whitney, but you’re not giving me anything here,” she added, maybe a bit for her own protection from the onslaught.

Simone thought about a smart reply. She didn’t hate Theresa or anything. She knew she loved Whitney dearly. Simone just thought she was a bit….weird. That was a good choice of words. She quickly rethought her reply. She needed Theresa’s help with this. That is why she called after all. “Okay Theresa, you’re right,” she started. “I called because I know that something else is eating Whitney. After she went on about how Mr. Crane, Nicholas I believe his name is, practically chewed her head off at High Tides..”

“She went to High Tides,” Theresa interrupted, knowing the meaning that place held for her best friend.

“Yeah. That’s what I said. But apparently, she wanted to,” Simone finished. “But anyway, apparently she asked Mr. Nicholas Crane what he was doing at High Tides, and he lost his mind and snapped at my baby sister,” Simone finished, realizing she had adopted some of Whitney’s rage about the whole thing.

“He yelled at her for asking a question,” Theresa asked, trying to figure out what was going on.


‘That’s what I said,” Simone replied matter of factly.

“But she spoke so highly of him a few weeks ago. She’s had nothing but nice things to say about him since she met him,” Theresa replied, questioning the events that had been described to her.

“Well, this is what Whitney told me,” Simone said. Then she decided to ask Theresa a question, not sure if she’d regret it. “Hey Theresa,” she asked softly. “When Whitney told you about Mr. Crane. I mean, the first time, what did she look like, Simone asked, almost afraid of the answer.

“Far off. Some type of gleam in her eye,” Theresa responded, as it suddenly dawned on her. “You saw it too,” she asked, waiting for confirmation.

“I don’t know what I saw to be honest. But it was something. That’s why I called you. I don’t think she gave me the whole story Theresa. There’s something she’s not telling me,” Simone said honestly. “I figured, since you’re her best friend, she’d talk to you.

“Ha,” Theresa chuckled. “I doubt she’s even told herself yet,” she said. She knew Whitney like the back of her hand. “But,” she paused, her plan coming to mind. “I do have that fitting tomorrow. I think I know what I saw on Whitney’s face. And if it’s true, it would explain why she’s so upset. I plan to get the other side of the story tomorrow,” Theresa finished as she explained her intentions to Simone.

“Well, normally, I’d tell you no. But I’m sure your husband has probably beaten me to it for one thing. And two, it’s Whitney. If you know something I don’t, something that can help. Go for it,” Simone said in a reluctant, yet approving tone. “But if she gets hurt because of something your crazy ass did,” Simone warned her.

“Simone, I know you think I’m nuts, but I love Whitney,” Theresa replied vehemently. “I wouldn’t let her get hurt. Not if I could help it,” she finished sincerely

“Okay,” Simone sighed. “Thanks Theresa,” she finished.

“Not a problem,” she said as she hung up the phone. She took a deep breath, and went upstairs to see her husband and child.
********************************************

“How’s that lucrative merger coming my boy,” Alistair asked over the speakerphone. He was in deep thought, but quickly responded.

“You mean my wedding grandfather,” Fox replied dead panned. “Just lovely. You can hear my excitement, can’t you,” he finished, not trying to hide his sarcasm.

“Well my boy, an ‘I do’ from you seals the deal. So you should be more than happy,” Alistair finished in his usual menacing tone. He would never admit it to anyone, but he was glad Fox was in line to take over the empire. He knew that he had the Crane blood running through him. His only fear was that he also seemed to possess his grandmother’s annoying habit of caring about others. Kindness and all of that nonsense. Things Alistair Crane not only had no time for, but frowned upon. Not only frowned upon, but spent his energy destroying.

“Oh, it does grandfather,” Fox said to himself as he rubbed the locket his grandmother had given him on his 5th birthday. He had to remain focused. He was almost there. “But there won’t make you happy anymore,” he thought to himself, but quickly banished the thought. “You can’t think things like,” that he reprimanded himself and responded to his grandfather. “I have to go now grandfather,” he said as coldly as he always did. I have to get this work done. I promised Gwen that I’d be on time for the fitting tomorrow,” he said and then clicked the off button.

Fox had felt a knot at the pit of his stomach since lunch. He thought it was the food. No, that was a lie, he knew it wasn’t the food, but he wished it was. It was what he’d said. How he had acted toward Whitney. All she was doing was being courteous. And he took the opportunity to practice his mission. Being a cold, uncaring Crane. He had wanted to take it back the moment he said it, but he couldn’t. He couldn’t let Whitney Russell throw him off his course. He was destined for this. Crane Industries was his for the taking. He owed his grandmother a proud legacy. “That’s it,” he said to himself. He let his secretary know that he would be out for a few hours, and to hold all of his calls. He was off, to refortify his purpose. And he knew just where to go.

Chapter 10

The sun was now peeking through the clouds ever so lightly. It was still a bit chilly outside, so Whitney tugged her jacket to her a bit more. She had gotten out of her car, and turned back a few times, not sure if she could handle this step yet. But it had been 5 years. If nothing else, she owed it to him, to see him in person. Finally, her resolve got the best of her, and she walked toward him. There was so much that she could think to say, but as he came into view, those things seemed to run together. When she finally reached him, she did the only thing she could do. She knelt down and began to sob openly. She knew this was closure for her. She had to let him go for good.

“I’m sorry I haven’t been back yet,” she began as she managed through her tears. “I just couldn’t handle this part,” she continued, still sobbing. “I love you,” she said sincerely and clearly, so that she was sure he heard her. “It’s just, I couldn’t be here you know. You were everywhere. You still are,” she said as her voice trailed off. She continued to talk about how much she missed him. Soon, her legs grew tired, so she sat down by his headstone. The hours seemed to pass, or at least what seemed like hours, as she recounted some of their times together. “You remember the carnival,” she said, a smile crossing her face. “Theresa spilled paint all over Ethan, and all she could think of was her sweater. I remember,” she continued, “because you won me that huge alien,” she finished somberly. “I swear that thing creeps me out, but I still have it,” she said, returning back to her reality. She sat there a little longer, just talking to Noah. She knew he could hear her, even if he couldn’t talk back. His spirit had always been so strong. She needed it to help her through the next 8 months now. For now, he was her peace of mind.

Meanwhile, not too far away….

“Grandma, you gotta help me out here” he said, a sense of urgency tinged in his voice. He knew what his plan was. He had for quite some time. But for the past two weeks, all he could think of was Whitney Russell, and he didn’t like it. She quickly popped into his mind again. He shook her from his thoughts, and returned to the present. “Okay, so I’m gonna do the usual,” he said to his grandmother, “and then you can tell me what to do.” As if he had gotten verbal acceptance, he quickly sat down against his grandmother’s headstone, leaned his head back, and closed his eyes. He was out in two seconds flat. Slowly, something began to come to him.

”Foxworth,” he heard her call to him. He knew it was her. She always came to talk to him in his sleep. He always welcomed her company.

“Hey grandma,” he said casually but affectionately. “How goes her,” he said in a tone more belying of him.

She chuckled slightly. He would never change. At least she hoped not. “I’m fine my grandson. And you,” she asked, already with concern written on her face

“Oh, I’m fine,” he said tentatively. He didn’t like lying to his grandmother. “My plans are going well.”

“Are they,” she questioned him. “Well, I’m sure you’ll make the family business something to be proud of,” she told him honestly.

“That’s the plan,” he said matter of factly. He now seemed to be regaining focus. “My marriage is in 8 months. But I’m thinking of moving it up,” he told her, almost wondering why he hadn’t thought of it before.

“But why Foxworth,” she asked. “There is no need. Nothing is standing in your way. And you don’t need to be unhappy for any longer than you need to be,” she said in honestly

What should he say. He couldn’t say what it really was. That it was her. That he wanted her out of his mind now, and that marrying Gwen would rid him of her. “I just want to make you proud of me as soon as possible,” which wasn’t a total lie on his part.

“Oh Foxworth, I already am proud of you. So very proud,” she smiled as she touched his cheek. “Look at you, so handsome,” she smiled down at him now. “I don’t like that you’re unhappy my grandson,” she said with pain in her eyes.

“I’m not unhappy grandmother,” he replied. “I’m gonna do what you always wanted. Just like I promised. I’m almost there,” he told her with conviction.
“Forworth, all I’ll EVER want is for you to be happy. Never forget that, please,” she finished, as if she were pleading with him.

“Cranes are never happy grandmother, you know that,” he said as if it was common knowledge.

“Don’t you see my grandson, you were meant to be different,” she said as began to slip away from him.

“Different? I’m only suppose to make things better for your memory,” he said to remind her of the plan. But she was gone now. She had told him he was different. But why? She never had before. He suddenly opened his eyes. He didn’t know how much time had passed, but now his grandmother’s words began to stay with him. It certainly hadn’t helped his resolve he figured as he picked himself up and began to walk back to his car. But what he heard next damn near broke down all his defenses. That LAUGH!!!

His mind quickly wondered back to the time he was six years old. His grandmother had taken him to his first opera. He wasn’t exactly thrilled, but he found that after the fact, he had managed to enjoy it. On the way back, he heard what he determined to be the most beautiful of noises. His grandmother was humming along to Brahms “Romance” He could still remember the way his heart moved up and down with the notes. The beautiful assault on his ears. They way that song and his grandmother’s voice had left him somewhere short of heaven.

But now, here he stood. Now that laugh. That laugh had surpassed that sound. It had elicited more than that feeling. He had been short of heaven before. Now he saw himself walking on the floors of it. It was somewhere he’d never dreamed he see. But hear it was. And all because of a laugh.

“Dammit Fox,” he reprimanded himself out loud as he continued walking toward his car. The quicker he walked, the better.

She heard someone yelling just across the path. It was enough to snap her out of her memories. She found herself laughing while sitting by him. Was it fair for her to laugh in his presence. “Of course. Noah wants me to be truly happy,” she said, answering her own question. She realized what time it was, and quickly got up. She was late needed back at work. She had refocused herself. This was her life. This wedding would make or break her career. She needed to do this. To accomplish what she had sought out to do five years ago. This was her ultimate happiness. Being successful. Making other people happy. “Even if they are a bitch and the devil,” she smiled a little to herself as she hurriedly walked up the path. Suddenly, she ran into a wall. She fell to the ground, unable to balance herself. When she looked up, she realized what was standing in her way, or rather who. And she was not happy. “YOU,” she spat venomously.

He looked down at her. He instinctively offered his hand, as it was the right thing to do. “God, she’s beautiful,” he thought, quickly banishing the thought as her heard her respond to her fall. She was not pleased.

“Well Miss Russell, if that’s the way you’re going to say thank you, then I’ll save my strength next time. It would probably be better used if I just pushed a dog out of the way of a moving car or something,” he said, disdain saturating his tone.

“HA. You are the reason I fell in the first place,” she replied back snappishly.

“Well, there’s a reason they tell you to walk with your head up. So that you don’t run into people. I pray you don’t drive that way. Otherwise, I’ll be pushing some poor puppy out of the way of YOUR car,” he responded with sarcasm now evident. He was in his element now. His defenses had returned.

“You know what. I don’t care WHO you are Mr. Crane. You are an @#%$. I know people tip toe around you. I know they think that if they kiss your ASS by not telling you that you are, in fact, a new BREED of @#%$, they can get ahead. Well, I’m here to tell you this. I’ll lay my cards out right now. I have everything to gain. But I DON’T CARE. I am better than the way you’ve treated me today,” she said, almost as if she was daring him to respond without the same brashness.

Fox stood dead in his tracks. Not only was she beautiful, she wasn’t intimidated by him. Not only was she not intimidated by him, she was honest with him. Not only was she honest with him, she KNEW him. Not only did she know him, she was an equal. He had never seen anything like her. If you would’ve told him a woman like Whitney existed, he would’ve laughed in your face. His grandmother was a kind woman. But people abused her kindness, mistaking it, and her, as weak. I wore on her, body and soul.

He took another minute, and just stared at Whitney. He started to realize, as he saw her gaze hold steady. His plan, to be a Crane, wasn’t’ working. It wasn’t a matter of lying about who he was anymore. Because he hadn’t been successful. Who he was trying to be in her eyes was a front. A front she had just picked apart. One that she was game for tackling all day everyday, until this wedding was over. He figured it best to respond now, while he could still speak in relatively clear sentences.

“I…um. You’re right Miss Russell,” he stammered, trying to gain his composure. “I was out of line back at the restaurant, and I was out of line now. I should be the one apologizing. I’ve had a long day, but you didn’t’ deserve the brunt of my anger,” he said with sincerity. “I’ll tell you what. How about we make a deal? We can be cordial to one another,” he offered with the best of intentions. “I know you think I’m a horrible guy. And you’re probably right. But I truly think you are the best person for this job. I only want this to go as smoothly as possible. It means just as much to me as it does to you,” he finished tentatively. She hadn’t responded yet.

She studied him as he spoke. He was sincere. The way he had been at the office the first time they met. She was now utterly confused. Which man was the real Nicholas Crane. Would she ever know? Why did she care if she knew? All these questions ran through her head. She then realized that she had yet to answer. “Okay Mr. Crane. This wedding is my big break. I suppose if we both need it to be flawless, then we’ll have to be cordial. We’re both adults. Completely professional and in control right? So, no more problems,” she said as she extended her hand to accept his offer.

He reached out, and they shook hands. They both gave half smiles and parted ways as they headed toward their separate cars. Both tugged a little tighter at their jackets, partly because it was cold, and partly as a distraction from the sparks they had just felt as their hands touched for a second longer than necessary.

Chapter 11

One week later in Harmony…

“Theresa, I think they’re here,” Megan stated over the intercom system, alerting her boss of the impending arrival of her next appointment.

“Well, you can send them up whenever they are ready,” she replied in kind to her secretary.

“Right away,” Megan replied before clicking off the system.

Theresa sat back for a few seconds, before she got out of her chair. She began pacing back and forth, in front of her desk, replaying in her mind exactly how she would go about dissecting Mr. Crane. But first, she had to figure out how to pull him away from his leech, just for a little while. She hated Gwen. She already knew it, and she hadn’t even met her yet. She knew the type from the line of work she was in. The upscale socialite, who knew exactly how to make the public believe whatever she wanted them to about her life, her money and her relationships. And the way she had spoken to Whitney. Theresa knew Whitney was truly good, because any normal person would’ve socked Gwen in the face and told exactly where to shove her account. Hell, she surely would’ve. But this wasn’t about her. She quickly plastered on the most “genuine” smile she could, and waited for them to enter. This was going to work. She had to make sure her best friend was happy. Suddenly, there was a light knock at the door.

“Come in,” she responded, stopping her pace and standing slightly in front of her desk, with perfect posture as they entered.

“Ah, so this is the world-famous couple that I have the pleasure of dressing for their biggest day,” Theresa smiled as she poured on the charm. She was truly a pro at this part.

Gwen grabbed her hand and blushed slightly. She loved a kiss ass. This women knew exactly what she needed to do. She could almost respect that, if she wasn’t class systems beneath her. But what she did want access to was her extraordinary talent to make a bride look like nothing short of a Michelangelo painting. She wanted Theresa Bennett to make her the envy of all of her peers for years to come. Hell, she wanted to be legendary on her wedding day. It was only part of what she felt she deserved.” Hello Mrs. Bennett, it’s so nice to meet you,” Gwen replied with an equally plastic smile

Fox had only been halfway listening to the small conversation going on between his fiancée’ and Mrs. Bennett. His eyes instead, had been drawn to Theresa’s desk. On it were pictures. She had the usuals. Several of a little girl with her exact same brown eyes. He could only assume it was her child. One of a handsome man, with sandy blonde hair and blue eyes, and an inset picture of the two of them together, at a seemingly younger age. He assumed that was her husband, especially since the child had dimples and she didn’t. He even looked familiar, like a lawyer from a firm his family worked with. What was his name? Oh well, he’d be sure to…He lost his train of thought. As he was thinking, he had turned his head ever so slightly, to see the rest of the pictures that adorned Theresa’s desk. One was a family picture with the man he had previously seen and the little girl. This left no doubt that that was her husband and daughter. But that’s not what caught his eye. To the right, there was a frame with one big picture of Theresa and the most beautiful woman he had ever seen, surrounded by several smaller pictures of them. She knew Whitney. Not only did she seem to know her, but they seemed to be close, almost like sisters. However she knew her, he was eternally grateful. It had afforded him a chance to study her face for longer than he had in weeks. GOD, she was so beautiful. He was use to beautiful things, but nothing like this had ever come his way. He knew he wanted her, to have, to love, to build a life with, but he couldn’t. No matter how much he had dreamed about it, he would never hurt her or put her in danger like that. She had a job to do, and he had a company to take over. That’s all that could ever come of knowing Whitney Russell. Fox was getting ready to turn around to answer Gwen, when the last picture caught his eye. It was of four people. Theresa and her husband were on the left side of the picture, comfortably staring into one another’s eyes. On the right side was Whitney, who was holding hands and smiling at a young man, with perfect skin, burnette mid length hair and gray eyes. The way she looked at him, it was like she saw his soul. It’s the way he had always wanted to be looked at. The way he felt only one woman could ever look at him. He began to drift off into a daydream when...

“Nicky, are you even listening to Mrs. Bennett,” Gwen questioned as she finished up the conversation.

“Huh? Oh, yeah, it’s nice to meet you Mrs. Bennett,” Fox said, knowing it was no use in even trying to pretend he knew that they had just said.

“Oh please, call me Theresa. And it’s fine, most men don’t even come to me, much less care about this part of the wedding,” she gave him a reassuring smile put him at ease. He smirked ever so slightly back at her.

“Well, my Nicky is going to be the exception to the rule,” Gwen interrupted. “I can’t wait to get started Mrs. Bennett,” Gwen said enthusiastically while changing the subject. “Where do I begin?”

Theresa thought for a moment, but quickly shook off the image of she and Whitney driving Gwen off of a cliff. “Ms. Hotchkiss, you can go down the hall. My assistant will ask you a few questions, just to get a general feel of what you want, and then she’ll send you down to me. We can discuss a vision then, how does that sound?” Theresa said the smile dropped a bit, but still hadn’t managed to move in the 15 or so minutes that they had been there.

“That sounds like it will be fine,” Gwen said between gritted teeth. She didn’t want to deal with some shoddy assistant. Only Theresa Bennett. “And what will I do with Nicky until then,” she smiled half heartedly at her comment. Fox cringed. He really did hate that name.

Theresa saw the look on his face and chuckled a bit. “We can send him down to the tailor to get a measurement. I’m sure he’ll be fine, isn’t that right Mr. Crane,” Theresa said turning to him.

“Absolutely,” he replied a bit too quickly. Was her actually going to be away from Gwen for a while? Alone with a tailor, and his very dangerous thoughts? This snapped him back a bit. “Oh, uh, which one of us should come back to you first?” he asked, trying to cut back on any confusion

“Well, considering I don’t usually do tuxes, I’ll take a shot at you first Mr. Crane. If that’s okay with you Miss. Hotchkiss,” Theresa replied coyly. Her plan was now in full swing.

“Yes, that’s fine,” Gwen said mundanely. She actually hated the idea of being stuck with a sub par assistant for any longer than need be. She just knew she’d quiz her about her utterly glamorous life, like some sixteen year-old zit faced girl, with pictures of boy bands adorning the four corners of her walls. She knew she was fascinating, but today, she simply wasn’t in the mood.

They were all silent for a moment, before leaving to go to their respective places. This was definitely going to be an interesting day.

Meanwhile…

“Twinkle Twinkle little star, how I wonder what you are,” Whitney finished singing for what seemed like the 100th time to Alexa. She had very little to do today, and even though she had gone ahead and gotten a jumpstart on a few deals, she still had a free day. So she agreed to baby-sit her favorite goddaughter. Well, that and it was her payback for the huge favor Theresa was doing. She chuckled slightly to herself as she played Theresa’s threat back in her mind.

“You know this is gonna be paid back in full, with your blood,” Theresa shot daggers her way. “Just because you have to suffer to further your career doesn’t mean I want to. And besides, I can’t commit murder. I have to stick around to raise Alexa,” she shook her head, still amused that her friend had talked her into this so easily.

“You won’t go to jail. Your husband is a big shot lawyer. He’ll get you off,” Whitney said, and then paused to look at Theresa in silence. Seconds later, they both burst out in a fit of laughter, like best friends often do. Alexa, feeling left out of the action, began to whimper.

”Oh baby, mommy’s sorry. The big girls didn’t mean to leave you out,” she said scooping her up and began planting kisses on her round cheeks.

“Aunt Nitty,” Alexa demanded as she stood in front of Whitney. Whitney smiled at her own special name, before following Alexa’s chubby fingers to the video section.

“Dat,” she simply stated, implying that she wanted to watch a video.

“Oh, okay sweetheart, which video do you wanna watch?” Whitney asked, although she was pretty sure what the answer would be.

“Elmo,” Alexa singsonged, almost as more of a question than a request.

Whitney chuckled a bit. This little girl was so adorable. She could probably get away with murder. “Just like her mother,” Whitney muttered to herself as she shook her head.

“No Elmo,” Alexa said as she saw Whitney’s head move in a negative manner. She was about to cry.

“No no no. There’s plenty of Elmo sweetie. I’m sorry, Aunty Whitney was thinking of something else. We’ll go watch Elmo now,” she reassured the child as she scooped her up and took her to her downstairs, where they sat on the couch and began the video. Content, Alexa scooted closer to her “aunt”, leaning her head against her side while she cuddled her bear Sleepy Time in her free arm. She was growing tired, but fighting sleep like most 18 month olds do.

Whitney herself was in a bit of a daze. It was times like these that she realized just how much she wanted what her best friend had. A wonderful home, a loving husband who couldn’t wait to come home to her every night, and beautiful children that she could love and adore. She wanted conversation with her husband, whether it be heavy or flirty. She loved her job, and she was looking forward to finishing this wedding and starting her own firm. Maybe with the extra time owning her own business would afford her, she could start to date again. Maybe, she could still have it all.

She turned to find Alexa was fast asleep. She smiled. She looked so much like her mom, but she had Ethan’s dimples. She wondered how much fun it must be for Ethan and Theresa to just study their child. To know that someone in the world has taken on your traits. To know that you loved one another enough to create something so right. When she and Theresa were young, Whitney was always the maternal one. She wanted lots of kids. She wanted nothing more in life than to be a wife and a mother. Something about the thought just fulfilled her. It still did. She began to become even more dazed, as she thought about what her children would look like, in her future house, with her future husband. She couldn’t help but smile at the thought.

“Mommy, I want a cookie,” she heard him say as he approached the counter. He struggled to pull his 3 year old body up onto the very high stool seated at the equally high counter.

“Now Nick, how do we ask for things in this house,” Whitney said sternly. She adored her children, but she was always a mother, first and foremost.

“Sowwy,” was Nick’s reply as he proceeded to ask his mother again, with an adorable half smile on his face, just like his father. “May I pwease have cookie,” he asked again, this time with an all out toothy grin. Whitney simply smiled back, unable to resist the charm her son had inherited from his father.

“Yes, but just one. And don’t tell your father I gave in so easily,” she whispered to him before leaning down to give him a kiss on the forehead. She just stood there and starred as he ate the oversized chocolate chip cookie. It was moments like this that she loved to study him. He had her curly black locks, which she loved to tussle about when they were playing. He had somehow inherited his great-grandmother’s cloudly gray eyes, which was a striking contrast to his golden caramel skin. He had her cute button nose. But his smile. He smiled just like his father. Hell, it had been that smile that was part of the reason he was here in the first place. It was a smile that could literally charm the pants off of someone. And in her case, it had charmed her pants off at least 3 times. She shook her head as she smiled at her own naughty thought, but was quickly snapped out of it by another voice.

“Awwwww, did Nick get a cookie, I’m telling daddy mommy, cause that’s no fair,” 5 year old Jasmine stated in a outrage. Jasmine was the oldest of Whitney’s children, and the only girl. She was use to getting the short end of the stick when it came to her little brothers, but she was still pretty spoiled. And both parents adored her, for she was smart as a whip. Plus, looking at her was like Whitney looking into a mirror. She was the spitting image of her mother, right down to the hand she placed on her hip when she got angry.

“Jasmine, he only got one cookie,” Whitney replied honestly. “There have been plenty of times when I’ve given you a cookie before dinner,” she said as she turned to quickly stir one of the pots.

“Well mom, we should cut a deal,” Jasmine said, the most serious of looks on her face. Whitney bit her tongue til it practically began to bleed to keep from laughing. “You give me a cookie too, and I won’t talk,” she finished, satisfied with her demands.

Whitney just shook her head. She certainly had gotten these negotiating skills from her father. “Fine, here’s your prize. I hope you feel okay about yourself after that blackmail,” Whitney said, feigning hurt.

“I would like to have it warmed up a bit more please,” Jasmine smiled after making the subtle demand.

“Little girl, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. You don’t HAVE to have the cookie at all,” Whitney went into serious mode in 2 seconds flat. That was enough to shock Jasmine, and she quickly dropped the request and ate the cookie as it was.

“What’s this I hear about cookies,” he came down the stairs, holding their youngest, 14 month old Noah in his arms.

She smiled even though her back was turned. She heard his voice and knew that he was holding his namesake. He still had that affect on…Nicholas? He mind must have been playing tricks on her. That was the only thing that could explain this being the picture of her future. She and Nicholas Crane, married with 3 kids and seemingly happy. She just knew it would be Noah bounding down stairs. It was always Noah, ever since she could remember.

“No,” she silently reprimanded herself as she snapped out of her daydream. Was nothing sacred anymore. Work was even taking over the few dreams she had left of Noah. And for it to be Mr. Crane was just downright appalling. He didn’t even strike her as the type of man who liked children, much less would have 3 of them and be happy about it. It simply wasn’t right. She realized then that she couldn’t wait for this wedding to be over. She proceeded to pick Alexa up and put her down upstairs, in her own bed. She sat and watched her sleep for a while, envious of the simplicity of childhood. How she wished most days that she could just go back there and know that peace. But that time had passed, and she didn’t think it possible to know that peace again. She would deal with life as it was. Yet and still, deep down, that thought didn’t feel quite true. Her soul simply refused to agree with her mind.

Chapter 12

In an ideal world, Theresa would just go up to him and say “Mr. Crane, let’s cut the chit chat and get to it. You are going to marry the wrong woman. You should be marrying the woman who is helping you with this travesty and you know it. So why don’t you take the keys to my house, drive over there in a hurry, open the front door, grab her and stand in front of her face until she finally admits what we all know.” But this wasn’t an ideal world, or an ideal situation. So instead, she used the scheming ability God had given her. She wasn’t sure it would work. From all that she had heard from Whitney, Mr. Crane was just as stubborn as Whitney was.

“So,” Theresa began as she read over the measurements, “what exactly was on my desk that fascinated you so much that you paid no attention to me,” she smiled, knowing she had caught him off guard.

He turned a slight shade of red, embarrassed that she had caught him read handed. “Well, besides the fact that this isn’t my thing, the picture of the guy I’m assuming is your husband caught my eye,” he stated matter of factly, trying to cover his tracks.

“Don’t tell me you’re into my husband. I don’t think Miss Hotchkiss would be to pleased with that turn of events,” Theresa said laughing in an aimless direction.

Secretly, he chuckled at that joke. But he refused to laugh out loud. He couldn’t laugh around her, she knew Whitney. He couldn’t let his guard down around anyone that had anything to do with her or the wedding. “Should I find your particular brand of humor funny,” he replied in a snappish tone.

“Oh hell no,” Theresa’s mind screamed, even as she kept her mouth closed and focused herself on the task at hand. Whatever appeal she thought Whitney saw in this guy was quickly vanishing. She had to think quickly, and decided to take a chance and think he was just keeping his guard up. “Look, Mr. Crane. While we might not come from the same walk of life, I am not someone to be demeaned here,” she stated quietly but sternly. “I am offering you my services. I need to know something about you and I was just trying to lighten the mood so this could be as painless as possible. But if you really don’t want to be here, just say the word. I won’t force you..”

She was cut off by his apology. “I apologize Mrs. Bennett. But please understand, I’m very weary of forming any type of relationship outside of a professional realm. The press hounds me, businesspeople try to manipulate me, and the public, well, they are the public. It’s simply a matter of telling the truth, and keeping the rest to myself. I didn’t mean to be rude,” he offered a sincere explanation.

She looked at him while checking the measurements with her own measuring tape. Hesitantly, she accepted his apology. “Well, rest assured, I’m not the press. It would be terrible business on my part to try to trick you, and I am the public, but not the part that’s concerned with what celebrities do,” she finished calmly, hoping that any animosity had been squashed.

“I believe you Mrs. Bennett, and again I apologize,” he said, as he began to chuckle. “You and Miss Russell must be quite close. First she yells at me, and now you,” he laughs in spite of himself at the memory of his encounter with Whitney last week.

Theresa wanted to scream. How two people could be so oblivious and stubborn she would never know. But she decided to play it cool. “So now you’d rather have my friend than my husband? Make up your mind Mr. Crane,” she chuckled, knowing the joke would go over this time.

“Oh yes, your husband. I was just looking because I think I know him from somewhere. Is he a lawyer for the Allen firm?” Fox asked sincerely.

“Yes he is. He’s my little legal eagle,” Theresa smiled at the thought of Ethan. This didn’t unnoticed by Fox.

“You seem to be very much in love with your husband,” Fox stated somewhat whimsically.

“Yes I am. Aren’t you in love with Gwen? Turn,” Theresa responded and gave orders simultaneously.

“Absolutely. I’ve never known life without her,” he responded to the question. That wasn’t a lie, he really couldn’t remember his life without Gwen in it. That wasn’t a good thing, but he’d never tell her that.

“Well, I’m glad you two are the exception to the rule. Most of these arranged marriages are failures before they begin,” Theresa stated her beliefs matter of factly.

“That’s true, some of them are doomed, but not Gwen and I. She’s a working woman, for her father. I even remember telling my mom that she was so pretty when I was a little boy. I think even then I knew I would marry her,” he lied. God, what was wrong with him. He was such a Crane. He lied with such ease, even he believed it. He certainly didn’t think he deserved better than Gwen. And they had masterd the façade of appearing happy, if not downright in love in public. And after all, he wasn’t completely lying. He had known as a little boy that he would marry Gwen. He had know since the day she was born in fact. And he was going to do it, because he had duties, and dreams. He’d be damned if something like emotions threw him off his course.

Even Theresa was taken aback. Afterall, no one could be such a good liar. Nothing he said to her sounded rehearsed. At first, she just thought he was trying to be convincing. But hearing him talk, she believed that he could really be in love with Gwen. Why, she didn’t know. But maybe she’d have to take another look at the lady she thought so little of. What was worse, she’d see Whitney get hurt again. That, she didn’t think she could bear. Just as she was about to continue the conversation, Gwen Hotchkiss stormed into her studio.

“I demand that Theresa do all the work for my dress, starting right now,” Gwen yelled in the direction of her own personal Vera Wang. “This apprentice of yours has no vision whatsoever, if I have to spend on more moment with him, I think I’ll have your place burned down,” she continued to spit furiously.

Theresa quickly shot a look Dominic’s way. She had no doubt that the brooding, tall, and fairly good looking assistant she had hired a little over six months ago had done everything by the book. She was at a loss as to why Gwen was complaining. Her natural guess was that she was a bitch, but she had just resigned herself to not thinking that way. Dominic quickly walked over to his boss, while Gwen stood just inside the doorway, disheveled, looking like a five year-old who didn’t get a lollipop when all the other kids did.

“Dominic, what the hell is going on,” Theresa whispered as she saw Gwen head towards Fox.

“Nothing, I swear,” he replied with fear in his voice. “I did everything you told me to,” he finished.

“Well, don’t worry about it right now. I’ll just have to deal with her from now on okay,” she said while resting her hand loving on his shoulder. He quickly nodded in response, although his eyes showed that he was still in a daze. Meanwhile, Gwen had mad it over to Fox.

“Nicky, put your jacket back on. We’re leaving this place now. I knew I should’ve gone with Vera Wang,” she said, the rage still apparent in her voice.

“Now Gwen, you said you’d stay if you could work with Theresa,” he reminded her, trying to end the situation, whatever it was.

“Ugh, it doesn’t even matter anymore,” she said as she began to pace, waiting for Fox to side with her and walk out. He was about to speak again when Theresa chimed in with an idea.

“Okay, let’s not be rash here,” Theresa stated calmly. “How about I call Whitney, and she comes down here. I’m sure you can tell her whatever it is you don’t want to tell me,” she finished, looking to Gwen for some type of assurance that she wouldn’t move right away.
“Yes, call that planner of mine. She’s the one who put me here in the first place,” she said snidely as she stood next to Fox, arms crossed over her chest.

Theresa picked up the phone and dialed. She hated to do this, but she had to stop them from leaving. She had to keep the account, or at least Mr. Crane. And she had to make sure Whitney kept this wedding. Her dreams lived and died with this account. Finally, on the third ring, the phone picked up.

“Bennett residence, Whitney speaking,” she answered in a tone that was so pleasant, Theresa almost didn’t want to answer her and ruin the mood.

“Whit, it’s Theresa,” she spoke a frantically from the other end.

“Theresa, you sound all worked up. What’s wrong,” Whitney was genuinely concerned. Theresa didn’t lose her cool all that often.

“Oh, I’ll tell ya what’s going on. Your number one clinet is about to walk out on me and you,” she began out loud, before realizing where she was. She quickly turned around and continued to speak in a pitch so only Whitney could hear her. “I sent her to Dominic for measurement and the questionarre, while I worked with Fox, and the next thing you know, she comes barging in here ready for the world and demanding to see me or else she’ll quit the account and burn down my building. The bitch is crazy Whitney,” Theresa finished the conversation more riled up than when she started.

Part of Whitney wanted to chuckle at Theresa’s last comment, but she had to think on her feet. She could see her dream walk right out of that door with Gwen and Nicholas in tow. “Well, did she say what was wrong?” Whitney questioned, although she wasn’t sure she wanted to know.

“She said Dominic had no vision. I’m pretty sure what she meant was he had no vision of himself in bed with her,” Theresa snarked. “And to think, I was going to give her the benefit of the doubt because Mr. Crane seemed so in love with her.”

Was that a dagger Whitney felt? And if it was, then why. She knew Nich…Mr. Crane was getting married to Gwen because he loved her. At least in part. He had to love her to be with her that long. Besides, she was sure Gwen had good qualities. “Focus Whitney,” she yelled inwardly to herself.

“So wait, you think she wanted to sleep with Dominic?” Whitney asked inquisitively.

“Once these socialites realize he’s straight, most of them do. He never tells me, but I’ve pretty much figured it out,” Theresa informed Whitney.

“Well, I’m sure you can handle it,” Whitney began, trying to avoid having to show up and defuse the situation. It was her day off for one. And after that comment, she didn’t want to be around the couple all of a sudden.

“Whitney Louise Russell,” Theresa spat out to her best friend. “You know how this friendship works. I’m the hothead and you’re the levelheaded one. If you don’t come down here right now, I will kill her, and then you really won’t have a wedding or your own firm,” she finished as she felt her hatred grow by the minute.

”But Theresa, I am babysitting your daughter. We are in the middle of painting. Your mom isn’t home, Simone’s at work, there is no one to watch her. And besides, I look about as far from professional as you can get,” she rationalized.

“I don’t care right now Whitney. Bring Alexa with you, I won’t mind. I could actually use her to help my sanity. And as for what you look like,” Theresa paused, “it’s definitely not a concern at the moment. Just come and save your job and Gwen’s life,” she said and then hung up, not giving Whitney a chance to answer.

Whitney cursed under her breath. “Hey sweetheart, how would like to go with me to see mommy right now,” Whitney sweetly asked her goddaughter.

“Me see mommy,” she gave Whitney a toothy grin. Whitney smiled back at her, as she grabbed her, ran out and locked the door, and strapped Alexa in. This was definitely gonna be one wild ride.

Chapter 13

She bounded up the stairs two at a time, with Alexa perched firmly on her left hip, being held by her left arm. Her white V-neck t-shirt was completely paint stained from the artwork she and Alexa had spent the past hour and a half creating. Her curly locks were pulled back into a sloppy ponytail and her faded jeans and pair of old K Swiss’s had trace amounts of paint stains on them. She had managed to bundle Alexa up, but didn’t bother to get a jacket for herself. She was now running on pure adrenaline. Her entire future was a stake.

She burst through the door, gripping her goddaughter tightly, not knowing quite what to expect. She stopped to speak as she caught her breath. Quickly, she scanned the room. She saw her best friend pacing in front of her desk and facing the window. Whitney assumed she was doing it to control her temper. Meanwhile, she saw Gwen out of the corner of her eye, still complaining to Nicholas about whatever had happened. For some reason, she could bring herself to make contact with him. She knew how terrible she must have looked, even though no one had turned to see her yet. She decided to say something. The tension in the room was thick to say the least. Finally catching a solid breath, she announced herself. “I got here as fast as I could. So, where’s the fire,” she said with a small smirk on her face, shy about her attempt to lighten the situation.

Three pairs of eyes whipped around immediately at the sound of her calm, melodic voice. Kindness tends to make itself know in a room full of chaos.

All of a sudden, she felt them staring at her. She knew what she looked like, but she didn’t think it was that bad. She had even said she needed to change, but Theresa insisted there was no time. She did agree with that. She could tell by Theresa’s eyes that she was angry. Although she could see Gwen out of the corner of her eye, she chose to focus on Theresa first, being sure to avoid Nicholas’s side of the room. “So, I’m here, what does everyone need me to do?” she asked, eager to get to the bottom of this so she could leave quickly.

Theresa, who had yet to say a word, simply stared at Whitney. And then, out of nowhere, she burst out in a fit of laughter.

“What is so funny Theresa,” Whitney said as she watched her friend try to keep her balance as she began to double over in hysterics.

“I..I’m sor…sorry Whitney,” Theresa spoke between laughs. “But you were right, you do look ridiculous,” Theresa continued as her laughter finally began to subside. “Oh, but it’s fine. I’m still glad you came. Here, give her to me,” Theresa said holding out her hands, demanding her child. “How’s mommy’s baby,” Theresa cooed as Alexa looked back at her with a smile like her daddy’s. That was all she had needed to calm down and let Whitney handle it from there.

Now, while Theresa had thought that her best friend looked ridiculous, Gwen was in the corner offended that she had spoken to Theresa first. After all, she was her client. The money came from her family and Nicky’s, not some fortunate dressmaker. She found it futile to try and state her case while Theresa laughed, so she waited, impatiently. Finally, she had seen that Theresa was caught up in the child, she assumed was her daughter, and decided to let it rip. “What took you so long? I’ve been here for almost half an hour waiting, because I said I wouldn’t walk out until you came. So much for being respectful,” Gwen began her righteous rant. “The designer YOU picked is clearly trying to ruin my wedding by passing me off on some under qualified and obviously gay lackey,” she spat in disgust.

Theresa shot daggers Gwen’s way. She was damn lucky she was holding her child right now, or it was gonna be on. Sensing this, Whitney quickly shot a glance Theresa’s way that said “calm down. I know the bitch has lost her mind, but I can handle it” That was enough to let Theresa go back to focusing on Alexa, who was playing with half the things on her desk.

“Okay, Miss Hotchkiss, I need you to slow down for me,” Whitney began, trying to disarm Gwen of her defense stance. “I’m sure that Theresa, I mean Mrs. Bennett didn’t consider it passing you off to Dominic. From my understanding, it is what she does with all clients. So, I assume she simply thought you deserved the best she could give you. Isn’t that right Mrs. Bennett,” Whitney said stone-faced, but all the while giving Theresa the “go along with me” eye roll and head nod.

“Yes, absolutely,” Theresa forced a smile as she answered. God, Whitney just didn’t know. “I wanted you to be treated like every other customer. I didn’t mean to offend you,” she finished. She suddenly felt a bit sick.

Gwen snarked to herself. She was offended. Offended that she was treated as everyone else. This was the wedding to end all weddings. Didn’t they know that. “Well, I was thinking, that this being the biggest wedding you’ve ever worked, that I could just work with you Mrs. Bennett?” Gwen said changing her tone to sound much more innocent than it was. “I just want the day to be perfect. That’s all. I apologize,” she said, looking at Theresa.

“That won’t be a problem Miss Hotchkiss,” Theresa said defeated as she adjusted the baby.

“Oh, I think the woman that gets to design my fabulous dress can call me Gwen,” she said in a tone that made her feel she was doing her a huge favor.

“So, is everything okay,” Whitney spoke up, happy that she was there, if to do nothing more than to bring Alexa to calm Theresa’s nerves. She saw Theresa nod as she became caught up in her child, so she turned to Gwen, looking her dead in the eyes. She had to avoid eye contact with the silent third party in the room.

Nicholas Foxworth Crane hadn’t said a word since Whitney Russell burst through the door. She was covered in a paint stained t-shirt and a pair of jeans, and looked like she had fought a war with a paint brush. He was sure most people, including her best friend, thought she looked ridiculous, if not insane. But from the moment she had entered the room, he hadn’t breathed. She had never been so beautiful, so sexy. There was something about her in that moment that hinted at the fact that she had been having fun. It cast a different glow on her. One that many probably wouldn’t notice about her. But he was also sure that many people didn’t think about her in unhealthy amounts the way he did. It was as if the light hit her eyes at a different angle, lightening them just enough to see a deeper sparkle. Even when she seemed perplexed and flustered at the situation, the glow hadn’t died. “Shut UP Crane. Stop it, and stop it now,” he told himself in vein as he continued to study her. “What the hell. You might as well look now. Once you’re married, the thoughts are all you’ll have,” he said to himself with a sad tone. That was the truth. He was getting married. He had to get married. So that was what he would do. He would study her now, take all of her in, in secret of course, so that when he was captive in the hell he called a marriage to Gwen Hotchkiss, he could conjur her up in his mind. Hell, maybe he’d even get to know her a bit more. Not much though. She’d be working mostly with Gwen. It would be just enough.

Whitney broke the silence. “Well, I think it’s been a long day for all of us,” she said with a bit more pizzazz, masking her uneasiness and fatigue. “How about we all just call it a day, and try this again in the near future,” she looked around, first at Theresa, then at Gwen. She still was avoiding Fox’s gaze.

“Is she doing that on purpose,” he asked himself, but quickly banished the thought.

“Sounds like a plan,” Theresa said. “This little one is eager to get home. Aunt Whitney, would you take her back. I took the seat out of my car, and I have to put some samples in the back seat…

“Say no more. Alexa, you ready to go,” she said as Theresa handed her. She was back on Whitney’s hip as she and Theresa stepped outside of the door, and watched Fox escort Gwen out, before letting Theresa look her office. They all went down the stairs together in silence, but the issue seemingly squashed.

As they got to the parking lot, Theresa put her projects in the back seat and ran to Whitney’s car to give her daughter one last kiss. Whitney then strapped Alexa in and waved Theresa off. Fox and Gwen had to walk past Whitney’s car to get to his. With Gwen walking a few paces in front of him, he took the opportunity to look at Whitney, as she finished strapping Alexa in. Whitney, holding a child. Deep down in his insides, he wanted that to be his child with her that she was strapping in. He then looked away. Deep down is where that thought would have to stay. He was marrying to save his business. He was part of the Evil Crane Empire. He had been so mean to her thus far. She was far too good for him. He’d never have that thought about her again.



It’s a new day in Harmony…

Whitney was tired. She had babysat Alexa yesterday. And while she loved her like she was her own. And even though Theresa had had the rest of the day off, she had to go out to the shops to get material for another wedding dress. So Whitney spent most of her day with her goddaughter. She was utterly adorable. But had far more energy than she felt any child that age should have. But alas, the working world called. And so did this account. She glanced at the clock. It was only 10 am. Still a few hours away from a much needed break. She then got a call over the intercom.

“Miss Russell, you have a call, her secretary said in her usual professional tone.

“Okay, thank you,” Whitney said and quickly clicked over. “Whitney Russell, how may I help you,” she asked not knowing who it was.

“Hello, Miss Russell, this is Ivy Crane,” she began.

Whitney froze. The Ivy Crane. Fashion Icon. Queen of the Socialite set. Women envied by almost ever woman on Earth. Ugh, even she was caught up in the titles for a moment. She decided to gather herself.

“Hello Mrs. Crane,” Whitney said a bit timidly. She wasn’t easily unnerved, but Ivy Crane had come dangerously close.

“Oh, no need for that. You can call me Ivy dear. I’ve seen your work. I have no doubt that my son’s wedding will be the best in decades,” she said enthusiastically to Whitney.

“That is what I plan on doing Mrs.…Ivy,” she said, trying a bit harder to gather herself.

“Yes, I know you will. Speaking of which, I called because I desperately need to meet with you. Today, maybe this afternoon,” she told her.

“Me?” Whitney said with slight shock in her voice.

“Yes dear. It’s nothing horrible, but a situation has arisen that you need to be aware of. I can’t get to your office, so is it possible that you can come to the mansion. Say at 1:30?” Ivy finished it as less of a question and more as a statement.

“Um, yes, yes that will be fine,” Whitney said in even deeper shock. The Crane Mansion. That huge house that sat atop Raven Hill and looked down on all of Harmony. She would be in there. The place her father scoffed at. That most of the townsfolk she grew up with scoffed at. This went against everything she grew up believing in. But now that she was grown, this meant her job. She would have to tread where her kind didn’t.

“Excellent. I look forward to meeting you then Miss Russell,” Ivy finished in kind.

“Oh please, call me Whitney,” she replied, returning the gesture.

“Alright Whitney, I’ll see you then,” she said and hung up.

Whitney just sat there for a few moments more before getting back to her papers. She was no longer tired. Now, she was curious. What was waiting at the doors of the Crane Mansion?

A/N *** Okay, so it's been a while. And yet and still, I totally felt like i was writing one big plot point when I wrote this. It didn't even excite me that much to write it. BUT, it is a necessary chapter to set up the rest of the story. You do however, get to meet Ivy. But really, that's about it. Just giving fair warning and saying sorry ***



Chapter 14


The clock read 1:25. She had made sure to get there early. She hated when others we late, so she always practiced what she preached. Besides, she was nervous and curious. The phone call from Ivy Crane was out of left field somewhere. And while she hadn’t sounded frantic, she had peeked Whitney’s curiosity. Then there was the simple fact that she was about to meet The Ivy Crane. Okay, in the back of her mind, she knew that she was the groom’s mother, and that she would meet her sooner or later. She just never thought sooner would win out, and in her home no less. She wasn’t on home turf, making her even less secure. Nevertheless, she walked up to the solid oak door and raised her hand to knock. She then stood there, waiting.

One of the servants quickly opened the door, puzzled because she wasn’t a familiar face. “May I help you miss?” the lady in the gray button down dress, with brunette hair pulled back into a uniform bun asked.

“Uh,” Whitney said nervously, trying not to bite her lip, “yes, actually, I’m here to meet Mrs. Crane. I have an appointment with her. Whitney Russell…”

The woman’s face smiled slightly as Whitney introduced herself. She was a pretty girl, and she seemed so shy. And her nerves were clearly all over the place.

“And I’m sorry, where are my manners,” Whitney said, a bit more at ease now, “what is your name?” she said never losing eye contact with her.

The woman’s tan, robust checks flushed a bit. Now she knew she liked this girl. No one ever asked the help who they were. Clearly, she didn’t know the rules around here, but for the moment, she was grateful that she didn’t. “It’s Inez miss,” she said slightly nodding her head with appreciation. “I will go get Mrs. Crane for you. You can wait right here in the foray,” she said excusing herself to the second floor.

Whitney stood there, surrounded by magnificence on all sides. The floor alone was probably worth more than her childhood home, but it wasn’t just the possessions in the house that threw her. It was the air around and throughout the home. From the way it sat atop the hill overlooking the town, to the height of the ceilings, the help scattered about the mansion, the sheer number of rooms, it was enough to make the strongest person stand in intimidation.

She was quickly snapped from her thoughts as she heard someone approaching her. When she saw who it was, she was momentarily awestricken. Ivy Crane seemed to glide, no float down the regal staircase. Whitney was fully expecting the help to stop what they were doing and bow until they were commanded to rise and continue their work. Instead, Ivy Crane made eye contact with her and smiled. “Well, if she’s a snob, I’ll find out in a minute,” Whitney thought to herself. Considering that up until now, her only experience had been with Gwen, she should expect the worst.

“Whitney Russell, wedding planner extraordinaire,” Ivy gushed as she reached the bottom of the stairs and shook Whitney’s hand daintily.
It took Whitney a moment to gather herself. She wasn’t expecting Mrs. Crane to be so enthusiastic about little ol’ her. When she did snap back, she realized that Mrs. Crane was leading her over to the couch, where she assumed they would discuss whatever issue she had called her for.

“Mrs. Crane, it’s such a pleasure to meet you,” Whitney said, keeping her words short so she wouldn’t afford herself much opportunity to embarrass herself.

“Nonsense Whitney, call me Ivy,” she waved limply in her direction. “And I must say, Gwen had some nice things to say about you, but she didn’t mention that you were absolutely stunning,” Ivy finished as she sipped her cup of tea.

“Oh,” Whitney responded as a obvious blush formed on her cheek. Partly from the compliment and partly out of shock that Gwen had said anything nice about her. “Well, thank you Mrs.…Ivy. But really, you’re too kind,” she said shrugging off the compliment.

“Well, I only speak the truth my dear. But, I know that this idle conversation isn’t a pressing matter for you right now. I bet you’re wondering why I wanted to meet with you,” she said now adjusting her posture so that she would remain professional while relaxing Whitney a little bit. Poor thing, she looked so nervous.

“Well, I was rather curious,” she replied honestly. “I’m assuming it has something to do with the wedding.”

“As a matter of fact, it does. Something has come up my dear,” she began explaining. “Now, it’s nothing monumental, but it’s something I felt you needed to be aware of immediately. There have been some…changes,” Ivy said cautiously.

“Changes,” Whitney interrupted. The word had taken her aback a little. She didn’t know if she could deal with changes, especially if it involved her staying for longer than 8 months. She really just wanted to do this wedding, get her business and go home.

“Really, it’s nothing to be alarmed with dear. I have made it possible so that you stay on schedule,” Ivy continued, seemingly talking around the subject.

Whitney was now becoming concerned that changes were occurring but she didn’t know why. “Mrs. Crane, Ivy, not to sound rude, but could you please let me know what is going on,” she finished relieved to have that off of her chest.

“Very well dear, I was getting to that now. You see, Hotchkiss Enterprises has apparently come upon the merger of a lifetime overseas. And well, while we all tried to reason with Jonathan, he insisted that Gwen front negotiations in Singapore for the next two months. He feels that no one else can do the job but her. But,” Ivy interrupted her own story, “that means she’ll obviously be away from home, and won’t be able to plan the wedding from there. She’ll simply be too busy,” Ivy finished. “I figure she’s trying to work her last days now, since she won’t be working once she’s married,” Ivy shook her head and reached for her tea to take another sip.

Whitney took a moment to let the information sink in. She had prepared herself for some earth shattering news. Instead, she had gotten what she considered to be a blessing. She didn’t have to work with Gwen for two months, seemingly longer since she would be well into arrangements upon her return with whomever she was working with. Wait, who was she working with. She looked back at Ivy with a small smile on her face, trying not to show too much joy over the turn of events. “So,” she let out a breath, “I assume that I’ll now be working with Mrs. Hotchkiss then?” she asked, her tone inquisitive.

“Oh heavens no,” Ivy chuckled after she had asked the question. “I’m sorry,” she apologized quickly for the outburst. “Between you and me, I’m sure working with Gwen has been enough stress. I would never curse you by allowing you to work with Rebecca,” she chuckled with a familiarity that would lead an onlooker to believe that they were old girlfriends.

“Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to assume that,” Whitney quickly apologized.

“No need for apologies dear. You had the right to ask,” Ivy said nonchalantly.

“Well, will I be working with you then Mrs. Crane,” Whitney sat up at bit at the possibility, realizing that in the few moments they had been talking, she found Ivy Crane rather refreshing and wouldn’t mind that arrangement.

“Sadly no dear. As delightful and professional as I find you, I simply wouldn’t have the time,” she began. “And while I love my staff, this is not the affair they should be planning,” she continued rambling, to Whitney and to herself. “No, the only logical explanation is to have you work with Fox,” Ivy finished with a smile.

Whitney almost choked on her last breath. Work with Fox? What on Earth gave her this idea was all she could think at the moment. That, and that this would not help her avoid him like she had planned to for the next 8 months. “With all due respect Mrs. Crane.”

“Ivy dear. Please call me Ivy,” Ivy kindly interrupted.

“With all due respect Ivy, I don’t see why working with your son would be better than working with you,” Whitney protested, making sure it wasn’t too much.

“Well, I have a social calendar that is booked solid for months. It simply cannot be adjusted for last minute crisis such as this. And besides, Fox is the groom, and he should be taking a hands on approach to his wedding anyway. It will help to set a good example for all the soon to be husbands out there, don’t you think?” she finished her argument, now sitting with her hands in her lap trying to read Whitney’s face. “You don’t have a problem with my son, do you?” she inquired, never having seen them interact.

Whitney blinked hard trying not to show that she was nearly stumped by such a simple question. “No ma’am, I have no problems working with your son, Mr. Crane. I just, I’ve never worked extensively with a groom before. I’m use to working with the bride. Women tend to pay attention to details,” Whitney replied trying to come up with the best lie she could to support an otherwise dead argument for not working with Nicolas. Surely telling Ivy that she became nervous or infuriated around him wasn’t going to fly.

Ivy chuckled slightly at her excuse, mostly because she didn’t even believe that Whitney believed it. “Well, I’ll have you know that Fox is the most organized person I know. That is one of the reasons he is so well liked amongst Crane Industries business partners,” she said