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Fake-engaged.

Damn it.

I put my plate in the sink, then get ready in record time. I head into the lodge to find out the flowers for one wedding are delayed, the shrimp for another have stunk up the kitchen, and the power to the computers in the lounge keeps cutting out.

As much as I hate that things aren’t going to plan, I welcome it.

I need a distraction.

“Okay, so don’t plug these two things in at the same time until the electrician can get out here on Monday.”

My bar manager nods and then heads to the main entrance, where new guests are walking in.

I blow out a breath. The power issue has been temporarily fixed just in time for lunch.

With the three crises of the day resolved, I head toward the lobby to check in with Mason before I retreat to my office to get some computer work done.

The room is filled with chatter when I reach it, but there isn’t a line at the check-in desk.

“How are things going out here?” I ask Mason.

“Things are going well.” He moves closer to me. “The lady sitting over on the burgundy sofa is with Epic Destinations, and she wants to do an interview.”

“No,” I say quickly.

Mason nods. “I thought you might say that, but I think you should know, her wedding is booked for two months from now. Here. At the lodge.”

Shit. Would not granting her an interview cause her to back out of getting married here and lead to another negative article?

I glance from her to Mason.

“I know,” he says quietly. “I’m having the same thoughts as you. I told her that you and Mr. King would prefer to do interviews together, but she wanted to wait to speak with you.”

I give him a polite smile and nod. “I like that—make sure all reporters know that. Preston is gone today and tomorrow, so no interviews until he’s back. She can schedule one for another time, but not today.”

He nods and rounds the corner to give her the message.

I start to back away slowly so she doesn’t see me and beg me to talk.

Woman to woman, I fear I’d give in.

Mason reaches the woman, and when she stands, her thick red curls fall to the middle of her back. She’s petite, but her hair is a statement piece, and I guarantee that between her looks and the way she’s smiling at Mason right now, that woman gets her way a lot.

I’m about to turn away when the main doors open and Brad walks in.

Damn it.

I back up faster but not fast enough, because the next thing I know, he’s headed directly for Mason and the reporter. She turns and he—oh no, no, no.

They kiss.

The reporter who wants to interview me and Preston is Brad’s fiancée.

That’s not good.

I’m going to be sick.

I rush down the hall, away from the lobby, and lock my office door once I’m inside.