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You better tell me everything- Tilly
Maybe…
She reaches out, giving me a little pinch at the cagey behavior, before holding out an enormous basket of baked goodies for Murphy. He makes no move to take them, and I remember I promised to be his barrier against people, so I snag it from her and take out one of her famous muffins. The sweet, gooey goodness of a cinnamon roll, all in a perfect muffin—the flavor explodes on my tongue, and my stomach gurgles at being so profoundly underfed today.
Murphy leans his head down, and I pop a bite into his mouth.
“These are great,” he groans before grabbing my hand to lick some frosting off my finger. Shock rolls through me at the intimate gesture. A warm heat crawls up my cheeks—he’s claiming me publicly. Butterflies dance in my belly.
Is this real life?
“I thought you might be hungry after the drive,” she stammers, looking between us. “And I wanted you to have enough food for your rooms.”
Drew rubs a hand over her back, and she glances up at him, eyes filled with love and adoration.
“We better get going. Just wanted to make sure you got in safe and say a quick hello. We’ll leave you to get some rest. Please let us know if you need anything at all.”
With that, they pass us itineraries for the next few days and head off into the night. The list is enormous, and Murphy releases a huge groan.
“Is it too late to leave?” he asks, rubbing his temples.
“Yes.” Twisting around. I slide up on tiptoes to press a kiss to his lips. “Why don’t I show you my room…”
The bar is calling my name.
Today has been one of the longest I can remember. All the maid of honor duties kept me running from place to place nonstop. It’s been completely insane, but I think maybe—just maybe—I’ve pulled it off.
The tents are set up for tomorrow’s ceremony and lakeside reception, the flower arrangements are stunning and ready to go, the dresses all fit perfectly, and the bridesmaids have their shoes, hair, makeup, and jewelry for the morning. My stomach churns with nerves, but I’ve followed all my lists and checked them over and over again. This time screwing up is not an option because Tilly means too much to me. She believes in me when no one else does, supports me at my craziest, and is the sister I always wanted.
Her day is going to be perfect. I just know it.
Murphy even texted me to grumble while he was with all the groomsmen getting his tux fitted, so I know he’s still in the state. Another win in the wedding column.
Pausing at the threshold to the rehearsal dinner, I take a deep breath and try to calm my frantic energy. Excitement races through me like an overeager puppy, and I want to settle just a little before seeing Murph for the first time since this morning. Although I’ve been beyond busy, I’ve still missed his presence all day. He wasn’t happy about having to come tonight, but he promised to meet me at the bar, and I believe him.
Reaching up, I comb my fingers through my long hair, smoothing out nonexistent snarls as I gather my composure, then I push open the doors and step out onto the deck. Pinks, golds, and oranges of sunset swirl through the sky, combining with all the pretty foliage to form a stunning backdrop. People mill about, listening to the relaxed music or grabbing drinks by the bar. Several large bonfires are just being lit, and it gives off the ambiance of a perfect fall evening—crisp, cool, and yet peaceful.
Scanning the party, I search for the broad back and man-bun I’ve become so attached to these last few days.
How have I come to depend on him so much in such a short time?
The bar is busy, and I can’t spot him. My heart sinks, worry flashing at his absence as doubt creeps in. I wander closer, keeping my eyes peeled and waving back at some people I recognize. My teeth sink into my lip as nerves get the best of me. But then the crowd parts, and I spot him sitting in a corner of the bar all by himself.
Joy fills me as he glares at anyone who dares to come near.
That’s right, his smiles are just for me.
A huge grin splits my face, and I start toward Murphy when suddenly big hands grasp my hips, pulling me back.
“Hey, beautiful. I’ve missed you.” A deep voice whispers over me, breath fanning the back of my neck, and I’m transported right back into the bathroom. All the blood rushes from me and I freeze, completely unable to move. A body presses against my back, and my mouth seals shut as if glued while my limbs tremble.
No. No. No.
The room swims…
No. No. No.
Chapter Twelve
