When Theo’s pre-K rally takes an implausible turn, they double down on secrecy even though it's clear their feelings have changed. Theo is working to pass a statewide pre-K initiative, and Maddie dreams of landing a gig as a TV stylist for women re-entering the workforce after having gone through homelessness or rehabilitation. As time passes, they share with one another their professional hopes and aspirations about making the world a better place. Neither Theo nor Maddie wants to tell Alexa they’re hooking up, and when she asks both of them to be members of her wedding party, they decide the wedding will be the end point for their affair. The beginning crackles with promise, but then they drift into a monotonous monthslong secret affair which consists solely of them hanging out in Theo’s apartment, eating pizza, and having sex. After years of terse interactions, Maddie and Theo have a one-night stand after his birthday party.

However, having the same best friend, Alexa Monroe (heroine of The Wedding Date, 2018), means they have no choice but to see each other socially. Maddie thinks Theo is annoying and arrogant, and he thinks she’s a vapid party girl. Maddie Forest and Theo Stephens have never liked each other. A one-night stand slowly evolves into a long-term relationship in Guillory’s ( The Proposal, 2018, etc.) third book featuring an interconnected group of friends.

Jasmine guillory the wedding party