Page 151 of Sienna Rossi: Beyond Shattered Trust

I grab myself a drink from the bar and gulp it down before taking another one.

“One would think it’s your wedding; you seem stressed out,” Raihana says from behind me.

“Why would you say that? It’s the pictures that are exhausting,” I reply, turning to face her.

She nods. “Maybe. I remember a long time ago, I used to be the one taking all the pictures. In all honesty, it’s quite nice to sit back and not have to take all the photos,” she says, taking a sip of her mocktail.

I look over at where the girls are taking pictures. “I can only imagine. I definitely think it’s a girl thing.”

She shakes her head. “Trust me, there are men who love taking pictures, too. Chris did.” She smiles fondly as she thinks of her mate.

I look across the garden, taking a moment before replying. “I think he loved taking them for you, because you wanted them, and making you happy made him happy,” I say quietly.

She looks up at me and nods before looking away. “Yeah, that’s true…”

I glance down at her. She’s admirable, strong, and despite everything she’s faced, she’s remained resilient.

“Well…” I step away from the table. “I’m sure he’s super proud of you.”

She looks surprised at my words before smiling softly. “Thanks. You’re a good kid, or should I say, young man.” She pats my cheek.

“I’m lucky enough to have good parents,” I reply.

“And I know for a fact Raven would also be super proud of you.”

“Thanks…” I say, just as Dad walks over to us.

“Did I hear you compliment me?” he asks me with a small smile.

“I don’t think so,” I say with a small smirk. “Right?” I glance at Raihana.

She looks between Dad and me, then shakes her head. “Maybe he did, along with Raven, of course. Mainly Raven.”

I nod as Dad smiles. “Well, I’ll take that,” Dad says before he becomes serious and looks directly at Raihana. “Can I have a word?”

Her smile fades, replaced by a small frown. “Sure, is everything alright?”

Dad nods before giving me a small smile and a pat on the back as he leads the way away. I wonder what that’s about. Is he about to bury the hatchet?

I don’t know, but I have more important things to think about. Speaking of…

I turn and spot Sienna before mind-linking her.

Will you spend the evening with your friends, or will I get the chance to have a dance with you?

She glances up instantly, a smile on her face as her eyes meet mine. Are you asking me to dance?

I guess I am.

Then, come take my hand and lead me to the dance floor, she replies, amusement clear in her voice.

I nod slowly as I walk over and stop in front of her.

“Want to dance, Darling?” I ask quietly, offering.

“Yes.” She accepts my hand, and I pull her close. Leaning down, I kiss her softly before guiding her to the dance floor.

One dance, then we’ll eat and then… Somehow, I need to figure out how I’m going to break the news to her.