Total pages in book: 59
Estimated words: 55832 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 279(@200wpm)___ 223(@250wpm)___ 186(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 55832 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 279(@200wpm)___ 223(@250wpm)___ 186(@300wpm)
Hendrix: We’re happy for you. Brock is a stand-up guy, and the Atwoods are great people. Congrats.
Miles: I agree. I’ve always kind of suspected you two had a thing for each other.
Miles is the closest to me in age. And he’s actually the one who was in school with all the Atwoods, even though Brock is younger than me. Miles used to hang out with the Atwoods and was even invited to this wedding but couldn’t make it because of work.
Miles isn’t the first person to suspect Brock and I have always had feelings for each other. Do other people see something we can’t? Does Brock really like me?
It sure feels like he does when he kisses me.
Nothing about this fake relationship feels fake anymore.
Hartford breaks me from my thoughts. “It’s time, y’all. I’m a nervous wreck, but I’m also so ready to get this over with. I can’t wait to become Mrs. Paxton Atwood.”
I brush a tear away from my cheek as I stare at Hartford. She’s stunning in her dress—a vision of elegance and grace. The gown is a masterpiece of delicate lace and soft satin, hugging her figure perfectly and flowing into a breathtaking train that trails behind her. The bodice is intricately beaded, catching the light with every movement, while the off-the-shoulder neckline frames her collarbones beautifully. Tiny pearls are sewn into the lace, adding a touch of timeless sophistication.
Her hair is styled in loose waves, cascading down her back, adorned with small, sparkling pins that catch the light. The veil, now perfectly in place, falls softly around her shoulders, completing the ethereal look. She holds a bouquet of white roses and lilies, and it’s all so perfect.
Hartford takes a deep breath, her eyes shimmering with a mixture of excitement and nerves. “I’ve imagined this moment so many times,” she says softly, her voice trembling slightly. “And now it’s finally here.”
“You look absolutely breathtaking,” I tell her, my voice thick with emotion. “Paxton is going to lose it when he sees you.”
She smiles, a mixture of joy and apprehension playing across her features. “Let’s go make it official,” she says, her grip tightening around the bouquet. “I’m ready.”
With that, we gather ourselves, taking one last look around the room. The anticipation is electric, and as we step out into the hallway, the enormity of the moment settles over us. Hartford’s dress glides along the floor, and I can’t help but feel a swell of pride and happiness for my friend as we make our way to the ceremony that will change her life forever.
Chapter 24
Brock
“You nervous?” I ask Paxton as we wait outside the chapel, the anticipation hanging in the air between us.
He turns to me, his grin wide and genuine. “No, I can’t wait to see my girl.”
“Me either,” I say, feeling a rush of excitement.
“You really like Willow, huh?” he asks, his tone teasing but curious.
I nod, shoving my hands into my pockets. “Yeah, I really do.”
I’m not lying when I say it. I really do like Willow. Hell, I think I love her. I’ve never been in love before, but I see how my brothers react to their girlfriends and I do the same with her. It’s crazy because this wasn’t supposed to go from a fake relationship to a real one, but that’s what I want. I just hope Willow feels the same.
“All right, the girls are coming. Paxton and Callum, go wait in the room off the side so you can enter from the door in the front of the chapel. Everyone else, wait for your girlfriends and escort them in,” my mom says, taking charge like always. She’s dressed impeccably, her hair styled in soft curls, her eyes sparkling with pride and emotion.
“And if we don’t have a girlfriend?” Tripp asks, shaking his head with a wry smile.
“Then you’ll just have to escort yourself in,” she retorts, not missing a beat. We all chuckle, the tension easing a bit.
As Paxton and Callum head to their designated spot, I glance around, taking in the scene. The chapel is beautifully decorated, with white roses and elegant drapery adorning the pews. Soft music filters through the air, adding to the romantic atmosphere. Guests are starting to take their seats, their excited chatter filling the space.
Mom puts her arm under Tripp’s and kisses his cheek. “You and your father will be escorting me.”
I hold back a laugh when Tripp looks at me with wide eyes. “Just think of everyone staring at you as you walk Mom and Dad down the aisle,” I say, moving quickly when he pulls away from our mom.
“Boys, knock it off,” she scolds, shaking her head.
Even as adults we both stop because she told us to. “Is it weird that we both still listen to her like we’re five?” Tripp asks.