“I can read. While corporate intrigue isn’t as fascinating as neuroscience, I did a little research after the New Year’s Eve party.”
There was never a doubt that out of the three of us—Vicki, Beth, and I—Vicki had the brains. That didn’t mean Beth and I were lacking. It meant that Vicki stood out from the rest. She was on her way to follow in her mother’s footsteps. Medical school and residency. Her next few years were mapped out in a direction she chose.
Vicki stood. “His history is impressive. No wonder everyone at Wade is scared to death. They know he could ruin them if he wanted.”
I shook my head. “Again, tell me your source. Who said they’re scared at Wade?”
Vicki’s expression morphed. “It’s not the best source.”
My curiosity was piqued. “Tell me.”
“Beth.”
My lips opened, but no words came out.
“Beth is staying at the Butlers’ house,” Vicki explained.
“No shit.”
“Oh man, it’s been a shit show. Her parents are upset that she didn’t come to them about the baby. Skylar’s parents are upset that there is a baby. Skylar insisted she move in, and his mom has her tucked away in some back wing. If you asked her, it’s dusty and hasn’t seen visitors in decades.”
I couldn’t help but scoff. “That may be an exaggeration. Their house isn’t that big.”
“She’s bored to tears, and when Beth is bored, she—”
“Talks,” I said, finishing the sentence. “And she’s hearing the Butlers’ private discussions.”
“According to her, they’re freaked out about Van. They’re concerned about what he’ll do once he has control of your shares.”
“He won’t have control,” I replied. “I will. Van’s been supportive of me making my own decisions.”
“What about a pre-nup?”
I shrugged. “Van has more money than my shares are worth. He’s already invested in Wade. I don’t see a reason for a pre-nuptial agreement.”
“How about so you can get some of what’s his if things don’t work out?”
Taking a step back, I shook my head. “Is this you talking or is it Beth? I’m not marrying Van with the intention of divorcing him and taking part of his money. I don’t care about his money.”
Vicki inhaled. “Girl, there are lots of rumors out there.”
Spinning around, I inhaled and exhaled. When I faced Vicki again, I said, “I’m not getting married today. I’m not feeding into a frenzy or letting my mom turn this into a three-ring circus.”
“I’m not sure about the circus, but there might be hot dogs,” Vicki said with a smile.
“Do you know what Anastasia said?” I asked, using my mother’s first name.
“I can only guess.”
“No, I bet you can’t. She said if I didn’t want to marry Van today, Skylar would be here.”
Vicki stood straighter. “Shit, that was exactly what Beth was worried about.”
“I. Don’t. Want. Skylar.”
“I know that, and you know that. I’m pretty sure even Skylar knows that.”
I turned to the wedding dress. “I’m not wearing that.”