“Thank you, Leo,” I said.

“I’m the mother of Ethan Carter, the groom.”

Leo took a quick step back.

He looked toward the towering columns of the main house with wide, scared eyes.

“You can’t be here,” Leo said.

“Your name’s on the strict list.”

I stopped and turned all the way around to face him.

The tinkling of the crystal lights suddenly seemed loud in the still yard.