Chapter 33

"Carson, darling, are you listening to me?" Margaret's voice cut through Carson's thoughts like a knife.

Carson blinked, forcing himself to focus on his fiancée. They were sitting in the MacPherson mansion's grand dining room, surrounded by wedding samples and catalogues. "Sorry, what were you saying?"

Margaret frowned, her perfectly manicured nails tapping on the table. "I was asking if you preferred the ivory or the eggshell napkins for the reception."

Carson stared at the two nearly identical pieces of fabric. He couldn't see any difference, and honestly, he couldn't bring himself to care. "Whichever you think is best," he said, trying to sound interested.

Margaret beamed, clearly pleased to have the decision left to her. "I think the ivory. It'll match the tablecloths better."

As Margaret chattered on about table settings and flower arrangements, Carson's mind wandered again. He couldn't stop thinking about Alice. Where was she now? Was she okay? How was the baby?

"Carson!" Margar