FORTY-THREE

A Wedding to Plan

“So, you’re getting married, huh?” Jessica Dane asked with a wide grin on her face. “That’s wonderful, Lolita. Have you told anyone yet?”

Lolita chewed her food for a long while, letting the question pass by her. Jarrod laughed and poured his mother a drink. She was grateful that he did most of the talking; all she wanted to do was hide behind him and keep eating.

“Mom, I only just proposed two days ago. She’s still in shock,” he said to Jessica.

Lolita nodded quickly. “Yeah. I haven’t told anyone yet. My family and friends are unaware.”

Issac Dane made a sound at the head of the table, but otherwise said nothing. His face was buried deep in fresh newspaper, which was usually the highlight of his day. Jessica eyed him for a minute and then smiled brightly. She was more enthusiastic than everyone in the room.

“But you have to tell everyone, Lolita,” She continued to probe. “This is wonderful news. I didn’t expect you guys to get married so soon—”

“Sure you do,” Isaac