“I believe I already said that’s none of your business. ”
She snapped her head and glared at me.
“But I’ll answer you anyway. No, I’m not sleeping with her. ” I opened the door, walked out, and slammed it behind me.
I heard Olivia open the door, and she started following me. “Layton, I’m sorry. Please just let me explain. ”
I picked up my pace and made it over to Mrs. P, Justin, and Whitley. Whitley took one look at me and smiled slightly before glancing over my shoulder at Olivia.
“So, You’re starting a party-planning business? Olivia said. .
“You’re starting a party-planning business?”
Mrs. P smiled and clapped her hands. “Yes! Yes, she is, and I’m her first client. ”
Whitley grinned and nodded. “Really? I mean, I can go over more ideas and things with you first—”
Mrs. P shook her head. “No! I like you, CG. You’re exactly what this town needs—a breath of fresh air. And my party is going to be your debut. ”
“Oh, I promise you, I won’t let you down!” Whitley peeked over toward me and smiled. “And it’s Whitley. I don’t really care for Layton’s nickname for me. ”
I gave her my best smile, which caused her to look at me funny. I glanced at Olivia, and she had a pissed-off look on her face.
“Well, since my aunt is so fond of you, Whitley, I’m going to have to talk to you about planning my engagement party. ”
Holy fuck. All the air just left my lungs. I looked at Justin, who glanced at me and then quickly turned away. They’re getting married?
“I’d love to—” Whitley started to say.
“You can’t plan their engagement party, CG!” I practically yelled out.
Whitley turned and gave me the dirtiest look I’d ever gotten. “Excuse me? And why not, Layton?”
Ah hell. I didn’t really know this girl all that well, but I could tell that was her pissed-off look.
“Yes, why not, Layton?” Olivia asked with a smirk.
What a bitch. I’ll never let another woman in my heart again.
I looked between Whitley, Mrs. P, and Olivia. Justin started to walk away toward the barn.
Fucker.
“Um…I just meant you might not want to get in over your head and all since you’re just starting out. ”
Olivia smiled and hooked her arm in Whitley’s. “Nonsense. This will give you the exposure you need, darlin’. Say you’ll do it. Please!”
Whitley smiled at Olivia and then at Mrs. P, who had the fakest smile on her face I’d ever seen. She knew just as much as I did that Olivia was doing this on purpose.
The moment Whitley turned to me, our eyes met, and her smile faded, but it quickly came back.
“I have a few things to read over. I’ll meet you back in my truck, Miss Reynolds. ” I gave her a weak smile.
She nodded and turned away.
I gave Mrs. P a kiss good-bye on the cheek and excused myself.
“Good-bye, Layton. I hope to see you soon!” Olivia called out.