Kimi forced herself to follow her mother's advice about being social at the wedding celebration. She moved through the crowded venue, making small talk with strangers and trying to push thoughts of Kolton from her mind.
Her phone buzzed with Bennett's call just as she rejoined Olive and Rylie near the refreshment table.
"Hey Bennett, where are you?" she answered, glancing around the party.
"Kimi, I'm so sorry. Something came up and I can't make it tonight."
Her shoulders sagged with disappointment. "It's okay, really."
"No, it's not okay. This was your mother's celebration and I promised I'd be there."
"Bennett, stop worrying about it. Mom isn't even here anyway, and it's just another party. We can catch up tomorrow instead."
She kept her voice light, not wanting him to feel worse. Bennett never missed social events unless something serious happened.
After ending the call, she turned back to her friends who were watching her expectantly.
