Page 142 of Big Dick Energy

“Marcus,” I whispered, pieces clicking into place. “Marcus found someone to make it.”

“A designer in New York. She cried when she saw your sketch. Said it was one of the most beautiful wedding dress designs she'd ever seen.” Brooke's voice was thick. “She worked around the clock to finish it in time.”

I moved toward the dress like I was in a trance, reaching out with trembling fingers to touch the fabric. It was softer than I'd imagined. More beautiful than I'd dreamed.

“It's perfect,” I breathed.

“It's yours.” Brooke squeezed my shoulder. “It's always been yours. You just didn't know it yet.”

The front door opened.

I spun around, half expecting Dallas to walk through, but instead found myself facing an invasion. Three women swept in carrying bags and cases, their energy immediately filling the cabin with a buzzing efficiency.

“Hair and makeup have arrived!” one of them announced cheerfully. She had pink streaks in her dark hair and an apron covered in pockets full of brushes. “I'm Jamie, this is Luna, that's Polly. We're going to make you the most gorgeous bride this vineyard has ever seen.”

“Not that you need much help,” added Luna, already unzipping a case of what appeared to be approximately seven thousand hair products.

Polly just smiled and started setting up a lighting rig near the window.

I turned to Brooke, overwhelmed. “This is really happening.”

“This is really happening.” She grabbed my shoulders, meeting my eyes with fierce intensity. “You have two hours to get ready. Your groom is probably already freaking out, driving Austin insane with questions about whether his tie is straight. Your family is getting dressed and trying not to cry. And in approximately one hundred and forty-five minutes, you're going to walk down an aisle toward the man who loves you more than anything in this world.”

Fresh tears spilled down my cheeks.

“Stop crying!” Jamie called from across the room. “I can't do your makeup if you're crying! Save it for the ceremony!”

“Sorry,” I laughed, wiping my face. “Sorry, I just… This is a lot.”

“It is a lot,” Brooke agreed. “It's also exactly what you deserve. Now.” She steered me toward the chair Jamie was setting up near the window. “Sit down. Let these lovely people work their magic. And try to stop crying for at least fifteen consecutive minutes so your mascara has a fighting chance.”

I sat.

Max, the videographer, circled around, capturing everything from a tasteful distance.

Luna started sectioning my hair as Jaime began applying my makeup, and Brooke perched on the arm of the sofa, phone in hand, coordinating God knew what.

Through it all, my gaze kept drifting to the dress.

My someday dress.

Today, apparently, someday had finally arrived.

I closed my eyes, letting the words wash over me.

Three months.

For three months, my husband had been planning this. Coordinating. Scheming. Keeping the biggest secret of his life.

All because he wanted me to have this moment.

All because he wanted me to choose him, as if I hadn't chosen him every single day since Vegas.

“Okay.” I opened my eyes, squaring my shoulders. “Let's do this. Let's get me married.”

Jamie grinned. “Now that's what I like to hear.”

CHAPTER 42