Chapter 1

My cousin Sophie asked me to be a bridesmaid over the long October weekend.

After a four-hour drive, I arrived at her parents' house and stopped cold in the entryway.

A giant engagement photograph hung above the fireplace.

The groom was Nathan Hayes—my boyfriend of three years.

"Emma!" Sophie cried, throwing her arms around me. "Isn't he handsome? We already signed the marriage paperwork. The ceremony's tomorrow."

I pointed at the photograph. "That's your husband?"

"Of course. He's amazing. So, are you seeing anyone?"

I forced myself to breathe. "I was. We just broke up."

Sophie squeezed my hand sympathetically. Then she told me how generous Nathan had been: a big cash contribution toward their first home, an expensive engagement ring, and a new car.

To me, he'd always claimed he was struggling financially. I'd quietly saved more than fourteen thousand dollars to help us start our life together.

"When did you meet him?" I asked.

"Six months ago. A family friend introduced us. He was always traveling for work."

Six months. That was when Nathan's business trips had become constant.

My parents and Sophie's family arrived with groceries. Mom asked where the boyfriend I'd promised to bring had gone. Sophie quickly told everyone I'd just been dumped.

Her mother patted my arm. "You'll find someone as good as Sophie's husband one day."

Then Sophie pressed a pale-pink bridesmaid dress into my hands.

"Try it on. Tomorrow I have a very special job for you."