“If you ever need advice—or anything—I’m always here for you. I’ll miss having you nearby, but just pick up the phone.”
“Will do. But…I also came because it was my turn to pick today’s movie.” He winks.
Then the festivities start in earnest, kicking off with the strains of Maroon 5’s upbeat romantic ballad “Sugar.” The day is full of fun, food, champagne, good cheer, and utter perfection. Hours later, our friends leave with waves and well wishes. My sisters and their husbands head back to their hotel, promising to have lunch with Hayes and me tomorrow. Liddy disappears to the guest bedroom to nap.
Finally, I’m alone with the man I love. The man who’s been my best friend for most of my life. The man I’m going to marry.
“Happy, shortcake?”
I turn to him with a smile that won’t quit. “Sublimely. Think we have time to sneak into your bedroom so I can show you how much?”
“We’ll always make time for that.” He sets a hand at the small of my back and ushers me into his bedroom, shutting the door behind us. “I knew there was a reason I loved you.”
“You didn’t always.”
“I did. I was just too dumb to see it. Forgive me?”
“I already have.” I press my lips to his. “When should we get married? Ella mentioned planning, and I nearly broke out in hives. It’s so overwhelming…”
“Don’t panic. I thought you might feel that way, so I called Keeley. She’s got an opening to get married on the bed-and-breakfast’s front lawn, facing the ocean, in about three weeks. I know you’ve always wanted to get married barefoot. Being a June bride is pretty traditional for you, but I thought getting married in the place we first fell in love would be great. What do you say?”
The day has already been so full of amazing bliss, it’s hard to believe I can still cry more tears of joy. “It sounds perfect. Just like you, string bean.”
“No one is more perfect than you. I can’t wait to make you Mrs. Echo Elliot. But maybe you want me to nibble on my very favorite shortcake right now?”
“Oh, I do.”
He gives a whoop, then kisses me with his whole heart. We melt together, starting our shimmering, perfect future in each other’s arms.
Want to know more about sharky Sebastian Shaw sleeping with the enemy? Read the juicy enemies-to-lovers Reed Family novel, MORE THAN HATE YOU!
* * * *