And Marcus realized there had been another conversation about his mother’s money that he hadn’t been part of.
The final page concerned the after-party.
The premium bar extension.
A private lounge.
An upgraded suite for the newlyweds.
And additional food service for selected guests.
The proposed cost was nearly eighteen thousand dollars.
Below the list appeared a note from the wedding planner:
Bride requests that additional charges be applied to Mrs. Carter’s event account. Awaiting account holder authorization.
Evelyn placed the page in front of Marcus.
“Did you authorize these expenses?”
He scanned the list.
“No. Brielle said the hotel was including them as part of the package.”
Daniel shook his head.
“I’m afraid those services were never included in the signed agreement.”
Marcus turned toward his wife.
“Brielle?”
She was staring at the table.
“Everyone expected an after-party.”
“Who promised them one?”
“I did.”
“With what money?”
Her eyes flashed.
“We were supposed to be celebrating, Marcus!”
Evelyn sat down.
“Brielle, I agreed to pay for the wedding you planned within the budget we discussed. Every contracted service has been paid for. I haven’t authorized these additions.”
Brielle looked up.
“It’s eighteen thousand dollars. You can afford it.”
Evelyn studied her.
“Being able to afford something isn’t the same as agreeing to pay for it.”
