She beams at me, clearly hoping to dazzle and butter me up. “Jackson and I were talking last night, and we have so much riding on this. The private event has to be perfect, you know?”
I nod, anxiety knotting in my sternum.
Gwen continues. “We thought it would be a good idea if we expanded the run-through, adding a few more people we trust to be brutal with us to make sure we’ve nailed everything.”
Gwen and Jackson seem to forever be changing plans or expanding what they were thinking. I guess it’s a peril of creative genius, but how the hell should I know?
“Okay.” I feel a headache coming on.
Gwen bites her lower lip. “You and Caden, of course.”
My heart skips a beat at her combining us, making us sound like a couple when we most definitely are not.
“Uncle Beau and Wyatt.”
Obviously.
“I’d also like to invite Jillian and Leo and my sisters.” Gwen turns to Caden. “Jillian is my best friend in the entire world, and Leo is her husband.”
“Gotcha,” Caden says.
Gwen flutters her lashes at me. “Do you mind if they stay in the house? We can make a weekend of it.”
Oh, the joys of living with your siblings. The last thing I want is houseguests, but I can’t say no. Not only is it not my place, it’s too important to Jackson and Gwen.
I shake my head. “No, of course not!”
It’s not that I mind, exactly. It’s just that it’s already crazy, and Wyatt, Jackson, and Gwen have a million important things to do—which means I’ll have to work with Mrs. Potts and take care of getting ready for everyone’s arrival and stay.
“Are you sure?” Gwen asks, shifting in her seat. “I know it’s a lot, but you guys are the only ones I trust.”
“It’s not a problem at all. I’m sure it will be fun.” I tilt my head. “Don’t you want to invite your parents?”
Clearly, I’m insane.
She shakes her head. “They’re coming in for the opening. Besides, they’ll just tell me I’m wonderful.” She grins at Caden. “It’s my curse.”
He laughs and laces his fingers over his stomach. “I’m sure it’s real hard for you.”
“You have no idea.” Gwen leans forward. “Will you work with Cat on all the different herbs we have ready to harvest? I never know what Amy will come up with, and I want to give her maximum room to play and be creative.”
“Will do.” Caden nods.
“Perfect. I’ll send you both an email with everything we need,” Gwen says.
The headache behind my eyes grows. “We’ll take care of it.”
“Whew.” Gwen stands. “I know it’s a lot, but Jackson and I were talking last night, and we think it’s best if we have a core group critiquing everything instead of laying it all at your feet.”
“Makes sense.”
“It will still be totally casual. I swear!” She grins at me. “We’ll make it a party.”
“Great. I’m sure it will be fun.” I feel like I’m smiling too hard, trying not to panic. I remind myself that it’s my job—doing all the things the talent doesn’t have time to do.
“Fantastic. Let me know if you need anything,” Gwen says, making her way out of my office.
“Will do.” I unclench my jaw as she walks out the door, leaving me alone with Caden.