Total pages in book: 24
Estimated words: 22480 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 112(@200wpm)___ 90(@250wpm)___ 75(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 22480 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 112(@200wpm)___ 90(@250wpm)___ 75(@300wpm)
In my room, I take a quick shower. I hate washing away the smell of Derek from my skin, but I remind myself that there can be more fun times later. Right now, I need to get my butt down to the bridal suite and help Journey get ready for her big day.
Lucy is already there and she’s looking better than she did last night. She’s helping Journey into her dress, carefully fastening the pearl buttons while the two of them discuss something in low tones.
The twins are here too with Lyla in a soft purple dress with lace on it and Leo in a tiny tuxedo. They’re so adorable and I can’t help smiling at seeing them.
Lyla has a makeup sponge that doesn’t appear to have anything on it. She’s rubbing it over Bunny’s face while Leo holds him very still. “Bunny is pretty,” she croons. “High cheeks. Good comple—mommy, what does Bunny has?”
“High cheekbones. Good complexion,” Lucy answers. She smiles at me. “Lyla insisted on watching makeup tutorials last night so she could do Bunny’s makeup for the wedding.”
“How are you feeling?” I ask, careful to keep my voice down.
“So much better. Thanks for watching the twins last night,” she replies, finishing the last buttons. “Done!”
Journey spins around and gestures down herself. Even though I’ve already seen the vintage wedding dress and knew what to expect, I still let loose with a little squeal. “You look like a princess!”
She blinks rapidly, moisture gathering in her eyes. It’s probably the pregnancy hormones. Like Lucy, she’s pregnant too. I feel an irrational stab of jealousy that they’re getting to go through this season of their lives together. “I feel like one. Cam spoils me every day.”
“He’s a good man,” I answer. In my time working with Cam, Lincoln, and Derek, I know that they’re all good men. They’re dedicated to helping the people of Courage County and they’ve taken me under their wing like a little sister. Well, maybe not so much Derek. He’s definitely taken me though.
She swipes at her face which is fortunately still makeup free. “And great, now I have to pee again.”
We help her to the bathroom, careful to protect her dress before we step outside the door. While we wait, Lucy helps me into my dress. She zips up the back, her curious expression is reflected in the mirror. “What happened between you and Derek last night? Lincoln saw you leaving his room early this morning.”
My heart slams against my ribcage. This is exactly what I didn’t want to happen. I didn’t want anyone to know we slept together. Not until I know where I stand with my grumpy boss.
5
DEREK
She’s not here. When I open my eyes and realize Wynter isn’t by my side, disappointment slices through me. I’d hoped last night meant something to her. But as soon as I think the thought, I hear the sounds of the lodge guests outside my door.
It’s probably just as well that she left. But I need to have a talk with her about last night. I’ve been fighting my feelings for her for too damn long. It’s time to tell her how I feel and get things out in the open between us.
I rush through a shower, determined to find her before the wedding. Cam will understand if I’m running a little late.
But as soon as I step into the hallway, the mayor is waiting to greet me. He gives me one of his smug grins that make me wonder what the hell he’s up to. I’ve never cared much for Mayor Banks, but it doesn’t matter since my job doesn’t require me to interact with the man.
“How are you doing, Dirk?” He’s a wheeler and a dealer, the type of person who would take a deal that left his grandmother homeless if it served his agenda.
I don’t bother correcting him on my name. He’s called me that since I moved here. “About to go find the lucky groom.”
He pats me on the back and walks beside me down the hallway. The carpet muffles our footsteps as we go. “Take a walk with me first, boy.”
I fight a rise of irritation at the nickname. It’s what my father used to call me before he’d fly into one of his drunken rages. At least, my mom had the good sense to leave him and take my sister with her. Journey didn’t have to grow up the way I did, and I’ll always be glad for that. “Only for a few minutes. I have to be there for the groom and bride.”
“Course, course.” He nods so hard that his double chin bobs. He’s not a horrible person, just maybe not the most honest.
As soon as we’re behind the lodge, the mayor makes a show of looking around. “County’s been quietly doing some audits. We suspect Chief Strickland has his hand deep in our cookie jar.”