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A soft nose nudges against my leg, and I glance down to see Tilly’s ring bearer staring up at me with puppy-dog eyes. Hot Dog lifts his paw and smacks it against my leg, indicating that he wants up, and I oblige, lifting him and placing him in his mama’s lap. The sweet little furball circles once, then plops down, satisfied when Tilly rubs his ears. Snagging a brush, I quickly apply new foundation and blush before starting on the eyeliner.
“You know you don’t have to be. Right?” Tilly asks, trying to keep absolutely still so I don’t accidentally poke her in the eye. “I love you most. Always will. But if you have an opportunity to be happy outside of Lustre Lake—grab it with both hands. You deserve the world, bestie.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Bringing the mascara up to her lashes, I quickly apply it and go to grab the lipstick, but she grasps my hand, and I look at her. “We need to hurry.”
“I’m the bride. They’ll wait.” She glares at me with those piercing, soul-seeking eyes of hers. We’ve been best friends since childhood and never, not once, have I withstoodthe look. “Now be honest. Something is happening between you and Murphy. I can see it in the way he touches you. The way you are with him.”
My shoulders lift, and my heart races. It’s so much easier to keep life casual. But she doesn’t back down—she never does.
“Fine. Yes. Maybe…there’s something there. But it might be nothing. And I don’t think he’s feeling the same vibes. Now let’sget you dressed before you miss the lakeside sunset and new moon night dancing with your hubby.”
She lets me finish the makeup, glancing in the mirror before placing Hot Dog on the ground and leaping from the seat to embrace me. Tilly gives the best hugs, second only to Murphy’s, and I melt against her, needing this special moment with my best friend before she begins her new life without me. We’ll always be close, but I know babies and a family are a priority for her—and while I can’t wait to see that happen, our lives are diverging, and it’s hard.
“He’d be a fool to pass up a chance with you,” she whispers. “Take the leap. You’re worth it.”
Now, there are tears in my eyes, but I refuse to let them fall. We don’t have time for another fix.
“Love you, Tilly,” I whisper, giving her a squeeze before stepping back.
“Love you more, Blyth.” She grabs our bouquets, passing one to me. The beautiful deep orange roses, white baby’s breath, daisies, and golden sunflowers complement one another, creating a cheerful fall feel that’s just so very Tilly.
“Let’s do this.”
Quickly, I grab Hot Dog, walk through the changing tent curtains, and step out into the interconnected staging tent. The other bridesmaids have already lined up with their groomsmen. Their dresses reflect the autumn vibes of the day, and they look resplendent in varied copper dresses. Murphy is right at the back, fidgeting. His jaw is locked, and his eyes keep darting around as though looking for a threat.
“Sorry, I’m late. Makeup emergency,” I whisper, sliding my arm through Murphy’s. His navy blue suit is already damp with sweat, and considering it’s fairly cool out, I can tell it’s from nerves.
He leans in toward me, and I hug his arm before dropping my head to his shoulder. The move is familiar, safe, and just like that, his muscles relax, and he brings a hand up to cup my face.
“You look perfect to me.” He drops a kiss on my lips, and I wish we were alone so I could deepen it without messing up all the pictures. The music starts up, and it’s time. I pass Hot Dog’s leash to Murphy, settle my bouquet correctly, and watch as the other couples walk through the curtains. Butterflies flutter in my stomach, swirling around and bringing worries about embarrassing myself in front of the crowd.
“Don’t let me fall,” I whisper. We’re next, and the adrenaline courses through me.
“I’d never let that happen. Lean on me,” he murmurs, pressing a kiss to my forehead.
The curtain parts…showtime.
Chapter Fifteen
Murphy
The sun sets over the lake behind the happy bride and groom as they say their wedding vows, and it’s a sight to behold. All the colors reflect off the smooth, shimmering water to create a stunning backdrop while a happily wagging dog brings the rings to the joyful couple.
It’s perfect. It’s picturesque. And I only have eyes for the woman standing directly across from me.
Thin tendrils of her blond hair have escaped the big, fancy hair thing she has going on. All the blue tips are completely hidden, but just that bit of wildness makes me happier—makes her look more likemine.
The ceremony drones on, and she smiles at me, our eyes locking together. It helps quiet the white noise in my head, the anxiety that stems from being around so many people. The annoyance at the itchy rented suit. Maybe when it’s our turn, I can convince her to run away with me. Get married, just the two of us.
What the fuck?
As soon as the thought flits through my mind, I want to push it back, but some things can’t be forgotten. I’ve only known her for a few days, yet somehow, she’s changed my world.
The vixen broke into my house, and now my heart will never be the fucking same. Going back to Sweetheart Falls without her seems painful, impossible—there has to be a way to get her to come with me.
The ceremony ends, and we link hands to walk back down the aisle. I barely notice the surrounding crowd, completely focused on getting Blyth somewhere alone. We have so much to talk about. I can’t just let her walk away from us without asking.
Following the wedding, the reception is all set up on the other side of Lustre Lake, and as we’re walking that way, Blyth gently tugs my arm.
