“Please don’t rush me,” I replied.

He tapped the back of my seat. “Just keep going, Jocelyn.”

I didn’t answer. I let their excitement keep building.

When we finally pulled into the Galleria parking lot, Rita had already decided which boutique would be first. Valet attendants were arranging signs outside the luxury entrance while early shoppers streamed through the glass doors.

I parked close to the upscale wing and shifted into park.

At that exact moment, my phone buzzed in the cup holder. Not a call. An alarm I’d quietly set while Gordon and Rita were upstairs getting dressed. I picked it up and held it to my ear, saying nothing for a few seconds, letting concern slowly appear on my face.